Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen
Abuja, Nigeria – The recent conviction of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu for alleged incitement through broadcasts has reignited debate over Nigeria’s justice system, with critics pointing to what they describe as a glaring double standard in law enforcement.
Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo, who authored a statement on the matter, contrasted Kanu’s treatment with that of Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, who openly engages with armed bandits, negotiates with terrorists, and issues provocative public statements yet remains free and uninvestigated.
“This contradiction is not just morally indefensible; it is unconstitutional,” Omirhobo said, citing Sections 17, 36, and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee equality before the law, equal protection for all citizens, and freedom from discrimination in law enforcement.
The press release emphasized that while Kanu was arrested through extraordinary rendition, denied consistent access to justice for years, and convicted, Gumi continues to move freely, entering terrorist camps and publicly defending perpetrators of mass killings and kidnappings.
“If broadcasts amount to terrorism, then direct contact, negotiation, and advocacy for armed groups constitute far more grievous offences,” Omirhobo argued. He warned that selective application of the law undermines national security, encourages impunity, deepens ethnic distrust, and erodes public confidence in government institutions.
The statement called on the Federal Government, Attorney-General of the Federation, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force to apply the law uniformly, investigate Gumi, and end the culture of selective prosecution.
“Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done. In this case, it is clearly not seen,” Omirhobo said. He concluded, “Justice must be equal. Justice must be uniform. Justice must be blind. Anything less is injustice.”
The controversy highlights ongoing public concern over Nigeria’s approach to countering terrorism while maintaining fairness and consistency in the application of the law.
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