Former Attorney General of Edo State and National President of the Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR), Osagie Obayuwana, has stated that the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will be one of Nigeria's most historic trials.
In response to Kanu's detention, he made the statement in Benin city.
He claimed that all eyes were on Nigeria's government to see how Kanu's case played out, claiming that concerns surrounding his dual citizenship will come up during the trial.
“As of the now, Kanu is presumed innocent until proven guilty. People are guessing that he has dual citizenship, and that Britain should protest and demand his return as a result.
“This isn't the first time we've experienced historical difficulties like this. Fedel Castro and Nelson Mandela were both tried. Obafemi Awolowo and Anthony Enahoro were tried in this country.
“Sentiments aside, he has been charged with specific crimes, and the stage should be set with reliable evidence to prove otherwise.
While criticising those who claimed Kanu's arrest would exacerbate the country's already tense security situation, particularly in the east, the former Edo attorney general said if Kanu has any questions to answer, he should face them and be cleared once and for all, while those with the ability to exonerate should be ready to do so.
“The country's precarious security situation is no excuse for delaying his trial. Those who believe he is innocent and support his case are encouraged to attend the trial. This is supposed to be a public trial on this matter.
"Nelson Mandela had the opportunity to speak about what drove him to rebel against the system that indicted him, and Kanu should not be detained for any longer than is necessary."
“This isn't a case of media trial or media hype, where he's being accused of all kinds of things in the media.
“The law needs proof beyond a reasonable doubt,” he said, adding that if there are reliable witnesses, they should be cross-examined.
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