Published 21st Jul, 2021

By Gabriel Ogunjobi

The British Government has asked the Nigerian government to give details of the circumstances that led to the arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

According to Reuters, Tariq Ahmad, the UK Minister of State for the Commonwealth, revealed that the United Kingdom Consular has requested access to Kanu, who holds British citizenship and is ready to provide assistance if needs arise.

“We are seeking clarifications from the Nigerian government about the circumstances of the arrest and detention of Nnamdi Kanu,” Ahmad said. “The UK has requested consular access to Kanu from the Nigerian government, and we stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Although the Nigerian government has consistently failed to admit Kanu was arrested before he was extradited to Nigeria for prosecution on June 29, Kingsley Kanu, his brother, said the IPOB leader was maltreated in Kenya before his forceful return.

Wilfred Machage, Kenya’s Ambassador to Nigeria, however, distanced his country from any involvement in Kanu’s arrest and extradition.

The 11-count charge case against Kanu, which includes treason, terrorism, and illegal possession of firearms, is scheduled to resume on July 26.

Share on Social Media