Court Sets to Hear Nnamdi Kanu’s N1billion Suit Against Nigerian Government, DSS
The Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice James Omotosho has scheduled the hearing of a significant N1 billion lawsuit for April 18.
This lawsuit was initiated by Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), against the Nigerian government and the Department of State Services (DSS). The case was adjourned to allow Kanu’s legal team to prepare a response to a counter affidavit filed by the DSS and its Director-General.
During the latest court session, it was disclosed that the Nigerian government’s representation had not yet submitted their response on behalf of the defendants, despite being served since March 6. Gbenga Oladimeji, representing the government, requested an adjournment to facilitate a proper response. Concurrently, the DSS’s lawyer announced that a counter affidavit had already been filed in opposition to Kanu’s claims.
Alloy Ejimakor, acting on behalf of Kanu, sought an adjournment to address new issues raised in the DSS’s counter affidavit, leading to Justice Omotosho’s decision to adjourn the case until April 18 for the adoption of processes.
Nnamdi Kanu, through his attorney Ejimakor, is pursuing this lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1633/2023, to address alleged violations of his fundamental rights while in detention. The suit targets multiple respondents, including the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the DSS, and its Director-General.
Among the requested reliefs, Kanu seeks acknowledgment that the actions of the respondents, such as the forcible seizure and photocopying of confidential legal documents and the prevention of his lawyers from taking notes during consultations, violate his rights to a fair defense. Additionally, Kanu argues that eavesdropping on consultations with his legal team infringes upon his right to adequate facilities for defense preparation.
Describing these acts as illegal and unconstitutional, Kanu demands several remedies, including an injunction against the respondents’ actions, an official apology for the infringement of his rights, and compensation of N1 billion for the damages he has suffered as a result of these alleged breaches.