UPDATED: IPOB Leader Nnamdi Kanu Arrested
Nnamdi Kanu who is the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has been re-arrested the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Roving Naija gathered that Kanu was brought back to Nigeria on Sunday to face his trial.
Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami on Tuesday said at a joint press briefing with the State Security Service (SSS) in Abuja that international collaborative efforts with security agencies led to Mr Kanu’s arrest and repatriation to Nigeria.
Mr Kanu and his co-defendant are facing treasonable felony charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Mr Kanu fled the country in September 2017 after an invasion of his home by the military in Afara-Ukwu, near Umuahia, Abia State.
Full details
Text of Press Conference on Tuesday 29th June, 2021 by the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN on the Interception of Fugitive Nnamdi Kanu back to Nigeria to face trial
Self-aclaimed leader of the proscribed secessionist Indegenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has been re-arrested through the collaborative efforts of Nigerian intelligence and security services.
He has been brought back to Nigeria in order to continue facing trial after disappearing while on bail regarding 11 count charge against him.
Recent steps taken by the Federal Government saw to the interception of the fugitive Kanu on Sunday the 27th day of June, 2021.
Nwannekaenyi Nnamdi Ngozichukwu Okwu-Kanu, born 25th day of September, 1967 at Afaraukwu, Abia State is a holder of Nigerian Passport No. A05136827 first issued 17th October 2013 at FESTAC, Lagos.
It is recalled that Kanu was arrested on 14th October, 2015 on 11 count charge bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, managing an unlawful society, publication of defamatory matter, illegal possession of firearms and improper importation of goods, among others.
A judge at the Federal High Court, Abuja revoked Kanu’s bail that was granted him on health ground and issued a bench warrant for his arrest on the same date, over his failure to appear in court for hearing.
He has, upon jumping bail, been accused of engaging in subversive activities that include inciting violence through television, radio and online broadcasts against Nigeria and Nigerian State and institutions.
Kanu was also accused of instigating violence especially in the Southeastern Nigeria that resulted in the loss of lives and property of civilians, military, para military, police forces and destruction of civil institutions and symbols of authorities.
Abubakar Malami, SAN
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
29th June, 2021.