Abuja, 20 October 2025 – Aloy Ejimakor, the lawyer representing Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been arrested by Nigerian police along with Prince Emanuel and others. The arrest took place during a protest in the capital on Monday morning.
Ejimakor posted on X (formerly Twitter) to inform the public: “We’ve just been arrested. Myself, Prince Emanuel and others. We are at FCT COMMAND CID. No 1 Zaria Street, Garki 2, Abuja.” The message quickly drew attention amid ongoing issues surrounding Kanu’s detention.
Ejimakor has been leading Kanu’s legal defence. Kanu has been held by the Department of State Services since his return from Kenya in 2021. A recent court ruling stated that the DSS medical facility is suitable for his treatment, despite concerns from his team. The case is set to continue on 23 October.
The arrest follows Ejimakor’s call for a protest on 20 October against Kanu’s ongoing detention. Supporters view the prosecution as unjust and politically driven. IPOB, which campaigns for the secession of Nigeria’s South-East region, was labelled a terrorist group by the government in 2017, a decision that remains controversial.
Little is known about the reasons for the arrest, with no statement yet from the FCT Police Command. The group was taken to the CID headquarters in Garki 2. Such detentions in political cases often involve charges related to public order or incitement.
Ejimakor is known for advocating human rights and self-determination. He has argued that seeking self-determination is a right, not a crime, based on past court decisions.
Human rights groups and Kanu’s supporters have raised concerns, urging transparency and the release of those held.
The incident could heighten tensions in Abuja and affect Kanu’s upcoming court date. Developments are being monitored closely.
