Presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, has criticised Aloy Ejimakor, one of the legal counsels to detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, for participating in Monday’s protest calling for his client’s release.
In a post on his X handle, Onanuga said he was surprised to see the lawyer among the protesters in Abuja, describing the demonstration as “shambolic” and “misguided.”
“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 wrote.
The presidential adviser, who serves as Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, faulted Ejimakor’s involvement, arguing that as a legal practitioner, he should understand the principle of sub judice, a rule that discourages public actions or comments on ongoing court cases.
“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 stated.
“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 accused the lawyer of abandoning his professional duty in favour of “extra-legal tactics” aimed at swaying public opinion rather than focusing on 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,” he added.
“Ejimakor’s action questions his adherence to professional ethics. Legal authorities should consider appropriate sanctions for the unethical conduct of the bearded lawyer.”
The remarks come amid heightened tension following the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja, during which Ejimakor and Kanu’s brother were reportedly arrested by police at the FCT Command.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has not issued a statement regarding the allegation of professional misconduct.
The protest, organised by activist Omoyele Sowore and other supporters of the detained IPOB leader, called for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in custody since 2021 on charges bordering on treason and terrorism.