BREAKING: Federal High Court Discharges and Acquits 50 Biafrans Illegally Detained Since December 2023
BREAKING NEWS: Federal High Court Discharges and Acquits 50 Biafrans Illegally Detained Since December 2023
The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Hon. Justice J.K. Omotosho, has discharged and acquitted 50 individuals of Biafran descent who had been detained under controversial circumstances for nearly a year. The group, comprising both men and women, was arrested by Nigerian security agents on December 1, 2023, in Anambra State while en route to a burial ceremony.
Following their arrest, they were transported to Abuja and charged with allegations of terrorism under Charge No: FHC/ABJ/CR/8/2024. The prosecution presented four witnesses during the trial, but the defense, led by IPOB lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor, filed a “No Case Submission,” challenging the charges as baseless.
In today’s judgment, Justice Omotosho ruled in favor of the defense, declaring the allegations frivolous and unfounded. The court dismissed all charges, acquitting the 50 individuals on all three counts.
Speaking after the verdict, Ifeanyi Ejiofor revealed that he took on the case pro bono, emphasizing his commitment to securing the freedom of innocent and oppressed individuals across the country. “I never collected a kobo from the defendants’ families, and I do not intend to. My dedication to justice remains unwavering,” Ejiofor stated.
This ruling underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens against unlawful detention. The acquitted individuals, who endured months of detention, now walk free, thanks to the diligent legal intervention.
Further developments on this story will be provided as they unfold.
