HURIWA, the Nigerian Human Rights Writers Association, has condemned President Muhammadu Buhari’s plan to trial Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, in secret.
During the week, the Federal High Court issued new Practice Directions on the trial of terrorism-related matters in the nation.
Terrorism-related cases, like as the one involving Nnamdi Kanu, would henceforth be tried in secret.
High Court Moves Nnamdi Kanu’s Case To CCT, Orders Secret Trial In Terrorism Charges
Media coverage may be forbidden unless the Chief Judge of the Court granted permission.
The Practice Directions were issued by Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Court, in execution of his constitutional powers as entrenched in section 254 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and all other authorities permitting him.
HURIWA cautioned that this decision will exacerbate the security situation in the South East, adding that the Federal Government took this step because they knew they had nothing against IPOB leader.
In a statement signed by Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, its National Coordinator, HURIWA said, “Secret trial for the leader of the now proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) after he was abducted forcefully from Kenya by Nigeria’s secret services in collaboration with their Kenyan counterparts, after being subjected to horrendous ordeals and illegal rendition, which offends relevant international humanitarian laws, is unconstitutional, primitive, illegal and obnoxious.
HURIWA Petitions Trump, Pope Francis To Call Buhari To Order Over Killings in Nigeria
“it is as if Nigeria is back to the days of military tribunal whereby citizens were simply chopped off the streets and made to face organised trial with predetermined outcome.
“The decision on the Nnamdi Kanu’s case is totally unlawful and irregular. If government believes it has a case against him, which is very doubtful, why is government afraid of the light and has chosen to try him in the dark?
“This may escalate the security situation in the South East because most people will see this as not been transparent, open and justifiably carried out.
“Whatever outcome from such a secret trial is ab initio null, void and of no moment.
LATEST: HURIWA Reveals Why FG Is Killing ESN Members
“We in HURIWA reject this appalling demolition of judicial transparency by the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration. This will adversely damage constitutional democracy.”
Follow us on Facebook
Post Disclaimer
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author and forum participants on this website do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Anaedo Online or official policies of the Anaedo Online.