By Jane Okafor, Abuja
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has claimed that it paid a total of $100,000 – approximately N130m, as legal fees to embattled Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, and barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor for representing its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, in his trial by the Nigerian government.
Ozekhome and Ejiofor previously served as Kanu’s lawyers before the IPOB leader later chose to represent himself in court.
The disclosure was made on Thursday by Madam Nnennaya Anya, Head of IPOB’s Finance Directorate, in a statement issued on behalf of the group titled “Public Clarification on Payment to Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, & Ifeanyi Ejiofor.”
According to the statement, the clarification was necessary to promote transparency and address speculation surrounding the payment.
The statement read:
“I, Madam Nnennaya Anya, in my capacity as Head of the IPOB Finance Directorate, wish to place on record and clarify for the avoidance of doubt that, acting strictly on the direct instructions of our Supreme Leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu (Onyendu), I facilitated the transfer of a total sum of One Hundred Thousand United States Dollars ($100,000.00 USD) to accounts designated by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN.”
She explained that the payment was made in two installments.
“The payment was made in two installments as follows: First installment: Eighty Thousand United States Dollars ($80,000.00 USD)
Second installment: Twenty Thousand United States Dollars ($20,000.00 USD).”
Anya said the transaction was strictly for Kanu’s legal defence.
“This transaction was duly authorized and executed solely for purposes related to the legal representation and defense of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in line with IPOB’s commitment to securing justice for our leader.
“All necessary records and documentation of this transfer are available within the Directorate for verification by relevant IPOB structures where required.”
She added that the clarification was issued to counter misinformation.
“This statement is issued in the interest of transparency, accountability, and to dispel any misinformation or speculation surrounding the matter.
“May Chukwu Okike Abiama continue to guide and protect our struggle for justice and self-determination.”
Kanu had earlier filed an appeal challenging his conviction on terrorism charges by an Abuja Federal High Court. He is currently serving a life sentence at a prison facility in Sokoto.
