Kanu’s trial: Ohanaeze demands apology over treatment of Ezeife, other delegates

By IGBONAKA CHUKWU, Enugu

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has demanded an apology over the treatment of its delegates during Kanu’s last court appearance at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

Disclosing Ohanaeze’s position to newsmen, the national publicity secretary of the group, Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia stated that “We are elated that Kanu was produced in court on Thursday.

“However, we were stunned that deliberate efforts were made to stop the leader of Ohanaeze delegation to the trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, the former governor of Anambra State and others from entering the court. Ezeife was a state governor about 30 years ago, a retired permanent secretary, a distinguished scholar with a PhD from Havard and Okwadike Igbo Ukwu.

“By all standards, Ezeife deserves honour and respect from Nigeria. Ohanaeze Ndigbo expects an apology from the Federal Government for the poor treatment meted to Dr Ezeife and other members of Ohanaeze delegation,” Ohanaeze demanded.

He added that “It is also worrisome and ridiculous that journalists were barred from the court; worrisome because the world wants transparency in the trial of Kanu. Granted that the courtroom may not contain all journalists, but at least some leading media platforms should have been allowed access to the court.”

Ohanaeze reiterated that the trial of Nnamdi Kanu should conform with global best practices pointing out that “it is in the best interest of the Federal Government that its image in the comity of nations is not always up for bad reasons.

“It is therefore hoped that the flip sides of today (Thursday) should be avoided on November 10 when Kanu will reappear in court.” (Nigerian Tribune)