The Court of Appeal in Abuja has unequivocally dismissed an appeal by Nnamdi Kanu, the notorious leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. This decision has sent ripples through the pro-Biafra community, leaving many bewildered by the court's blatant disregard for Kanu's claims of fundamental rights violations.

The three-member panel, led by Justice Boloukuromo Ugo, ruled against Kanu's appeal, claiming it lacked merit. The panel argued that the issues surrounding Kanu's treatment,such as alleged denial of medical care and freedom of religion,are irrelevant now that he has been moved from the DSS facility to a correctional center. This raises eyebrows: why should the judiciary care about Kanu's well-being now that he's behind bars?

Kanu's legal team, led by Maxwell Opara, confirmed that their client is currently held at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, effectively nullifying his request to be transferred back to Kuje prison. Justice Ugo further emphasized that Kanu had previously indicated a preference for prison custody, suggesting that his pleas have become obsolete following his conviction. This dismissal feels like a clear slap in the face to those who champion Kanu's cause.

Originally, Kanu's lawsuit was filed in December 2021, accusing the DSS and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) of serious rights violations. However, the court found his claims unsubstantiated, with no credible evidence presented regarding torture or inadequate medical care. The counsel for the DSS, Idowu Awo, pointed out the lack of evidence from Kanu's side, dismissing his accusations as mere rhetoric.

In what can only be viewed as a further blow to Kanu, the AGF’s lawyer, Simon Enoch, reinforced the ruling by highlighting the absence of credible evidence supporting Kanu’s claims. The trial judge even noted that while detainees may practice their religion, it cannot infringe upon the rights of others,a ruling that leaves many questioning the integrity of the system.

As a result of this decision, Kanu's legal team faces uphill battles in pursuing any further claims regarding his treatment. This case not only affects Kanu but raises serious concerns about the treatment of detainees and the enforcement of fundamental rights in Nigeria.