Bruce Fein Urges Supreme Court to Free Kanu on December 15
Bruce Fein, a United States-based international counsel and spokesman for Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has called on the justices of Nigeria’s Supreme Court to free Kanu on December 15, 2023. Fein described this date as a pivotal moment that could either bring judicial glory or infamy. He emphasized that the decision to release Kanu rests in the hands of the Supreme Court and urged them to consider the global implications.
In an open letter addressed to the Supreme Court Justices, Fein highlighted that December 15 is the day set for judgment on the legality of Kanu’s prosecution by the Federal Government of Nigeria. He implored the apex court not to turn a blind eye to the government’s ulterior motive of punishing Kanu for exercising his constitutionally protected free speech rights in advocating for self-determination for Biafrans through peaceful avenues.
Fein warned the Supreme Court against being intimidated or bribed and stressed that their decision on December 15 would be closely watched by the international community. He expressed optimism that a favorable ruling in favor of Kanu would be met with overwhelming applause from Nigerian lawyers, marking a significant milestone in the rule of law and judicial independence. Fein even suggested that the court could become a contender for the Nobel Peace Prize and serve as a model for other African courts by promoting judicial independence as a means to achieve domestic tranquility.
Fein referenced recent legal developments supporting Kanu’s case, such as a Nigerian High Court ruling, which declared the government’s outlawing of IPOB unconstitutional. He also highlighted the United Nations Human Rights Council’s findings that Kanu’s solitary confinement violated international human rights covenants and urged his immediate and unconditional release.
Furthermore, Fein accused the Federal Government of ignoring the international community’s calls for Kanu’s release and alleged that they collaborated with Kenya to have him kidnapped and tortured in Nairobi. According to Fein, Kanu was subjected to extraordinary rendition to Abuja in June 2021, where he was exposed to further mistreatment and multiple crimes against his person.
As the case continues to unfold, the world awaits the Supreme Court’s decision on December 15. The outcome has the potential to shape Nigeria’s legal landscape and influence global perceptions of human rights. All eyes will be on the justices of the Supreme Court, who now face the profound responsibility of determining Kanu’s fate and securing justice in what has become a high-profile and contentious case.
In these crucial moments, the world remains vigilant, hoping to witness a groundbreaking display of impartiality, respect for human rights, and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. As December 15 approaches, the anticipation and scrutiny surrounding this landmark case will undoubtedly intensify as individuals across the globe await the Supreme Court’s ruling in this pivotal moment for justice in Nigeria.
