Chief Bayo Onanuga, the spokesman of President Bola Tinubu, has lambasted Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, one of the lawyers representing the proscribed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for participating in a protest demanding Nnamdi Kanu’s release in Abuja.
The protest, led by Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Repoters, called for the immediate release of Kanu, who has been in Department of State Services (DSS) detention since 2021.
While reacting in a post on his official X handle on Monday, Onanuga, condemned Ejimakor’s participation, describing the protest as “shambolic.”
“I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore. I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest,” Onanuga said.
Speaking further, he faulted the Ejimakor for joining a public demonstration over a matter still before the court, arguing that such conduct breached the legal principle of sub judice — which discourages public discussion or actions that might prejudice ongoing judicial proceedings.
“As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court,” Onanuga said.
“The prosecution has concluded its case, and it is now incumbent upon Mr. Ejimakor and the other lawyers to mount a strong defence for Kanu.”
He tersely accused Ejimakor of neglecting his professional responsibilities in favour of “extra-legal tactics,” which he said could influence the judicial process.
“Rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist, to influence the process. Ejimakor’s action questions his adherence to professional ethics,” he said.
Onanuga further urged legal authorities to examine the lawyer’s conduct, suggesting that sanctions might be appropriate.
“Legal authorities should consider appropriate sanctions for the unethical conduct of the bearded lawyer,” he added.
