Why Nnamdi Kanu’s Case Matters: A Call for Justice, Peace, and Nigeria’s Future‎‎ by Barrister Joseph Obinna Aguiyi

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Nnamdi Kanu’s ongoing trial is not just about one man—it’s about justice, fairness, and the future of Nigeria. Many people seem not to be asking the most important question: why isn’t anyone talking about his rights, especially since he was brought into Nigeria in a way that many lawyers say was illegal?‎‎Kanu was taken from Kenya and brought to Nigeria without following any recognised legal process. This kind of act is known as “extraordinary rendition,” meaning someone was moved across borders without proper legal procedures. Under international law and even Nigerian law, this is not allowed. If someone is brought to court illegally, some legal experts say the court should not even hear the case until that issue is dealt with first.‎‎Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution gives everyone the right to a fair trial. That includes being brought to court in the right way. Kanu’s lawyers asked the court to look into this, but the judge refused to even properly consider their arguments. It almost felt like the judge had made up his mind already—that Kanu was guilty—without giving him a fair chance to defend himself. This is not how justice should work.‎‎Another serious concern is the denial of medical treatment. Reports say Kanu was denied access to the national hospital because of a forged document. That is not just unfair, it is dangerous. Every person in detention still has basic rights, including the right to health. By denying him proper medical care, the court has put his life and dignity at risk.‎‎Given all this, I believe the judge should step away from the case. If the judge continues in a situation like this—where fair trial rights are being ignored—it could damage trust in the entire justice system. No judge should allow himself to be used for political interests. The court is not a weapon. Whatever the outcome of this case will not be forgotten; it will shape how Nigerians see justice for years to come.‎‎Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, wisely chose to stay away from this sensitive case. I think President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should do the same. The president must not interfere. Let the legal system do its work, but let it do it fairly.‎‎What can be done now?‎The court can still make things right. Here are some steps it can take:‎‎1. Put the trial on hold and first decide whether it even has the right to try Kanu, given the illegal way he was brought into the country.‎‎2. Allow him immediate access to proper health care.‎‎3. Invite trusted human rights groups to observe the case, so Nigerians know justice isn’t being hidden.‎‎4. Let the defence speak freely. Respect the idea that a person is innocent until proven guilty.‎‎This is not about winning or losing a political battle. It’s about showing that Nigeria respects human rights, even in difficult cases. The way we handle Nnamdi Kanu’s case could be the example the world and future generations look back on. Let’s make sure it shows fairness, wisdom, and peace.

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