The detainees and their lawyer after their acquitsal by a court in AbujaThe Federal High Court in Abuja has acquitted 50 individuals from the South-East region, including men and women of various ages, who had been held in detention since December 1, 2023.
The detainees were reportedly arrested by Nigerian security agents in Anambra State while traveling to a burial ceremony.
They were subsequently transferred to Abuja and charged with terrorism-related offenses under Charge No: FHC/ABJ/CR/8/2024.
During the trial, the prosecution presented four witnesses in an attempt to establish its case. However, the defence filed a “No Case” submission after the prosecution concluded, and the court ruled in their favour on November 29.
Delivering the judgment, Justice J.K. Omotosho upheld the defense team’s argument, led by Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, and discharged the accused on all three counts.
Reacting to the verdict, Ejiofor described it as a moment for celebration and gratitude. He stated, “This ruling is not only cause for celebration but also calls for a victory dance. I would like to emphasize that this case was handled pro bono. We did not receive a single penny from any of the defendants’ relatives, nor do we intend to in the future.”
Expressing appreciation, he added, “We are deeply grateful to God Almighty for His endless blessings and grace upon our lives. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to my learned colleagues in chambers who worked diligently alongside me in defending these individuals and who stood in for me when necessary.”
Ejiofor also thanked supporters, saying, “Your prayers have been a source of strength and have made a meaningful impact. We will continue our legal efforts to secure the freedom of all innocent Biafrans and other oppressed individuals being unlawfully detained in various facilities across the country.
“We encourage our people to remain law-abiding, as they always have, and to reject any ideology that promotes violence, as such an approach can never lead to the prosperity of any cause rooted in the pursuit of freedom.”
The court’s decision marks a significant victory for the accused, who have spent nearly a year in detention over allegations that have now been dismissed.
