By Godwin Akomah, Umuahia
The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has disowned renowned human rights lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor, declaring that he no longer represents either the group or its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
IPOB’s spokesman, Emma Powerful, made the position known in a statement issued on Thursday, warning media organisations and members of the public against describing Ejiofor as counsel to the pro-Biafra group or its detained leader.
The development follows Kanu’s earlier decision to terminate Ejiofor’s appointment as his legal counsel. Kanu, in a letter issued from Sokoto Prison, also announced Ejiofor’s removal as IPOB’s lawyer.
IPOB subsequently accused the lawyer of failing to provide effective legal representation for Kanu in his ongoing terrorism trial.
In its latest statement, the group alleged that Kanu dismissed Ejiofor over what it described as “gross incompetence and professional misconduct” in the handling of his case.
“For the avoidance of doubt: Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu debriefed and sacked Mr. Ejiofor for gross incompetence and professional misconduct—specifically, for mishandling our leader’s case and allowing an impermissible civil stay to be used to overturn a criminal discharge,” IPOB said.
The group further alleged that Ejiofor had, since his dismissal, been advocating positions contrary to Kanu’s interests and those of IPOB.
“He does not speak for us. He does not represent us. He is an impostor,” the statement added.
IPOB also issued a warning to media organisations, saying that while Ejiofor could continue to practise law in his personal capacity and represent other clients, he should not be identified as IPOB counsel.
“Any media house that publishes or refers to Ifeanyi Ejiofor as IPOB counsel will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” the group warned.
IPOB maintained that only lawyers appointed by Kanu, whom it described as its leader and founder, are recognised as members of its legal team.
The group urged its supporters and the wider public to remain vigilant and reject individuals or organisations it believes are attempting to misrepresent IPOB or undermine Kanu’s authority.
