The family of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has alerted Nigerians and the international community of alleged obstructive actions by the Department of State Services (DSS), aimed at deliberately stopping Kanu from preparing his defence in court.

In a release signed by Prince Emmanuel Kanu, the family alleged that in the last few days, the DSS has made it almost impossible for Kanu to have proper access to his lawyers, family members, and key witnesses.

The family also alleged the DSS has equally refused to allow the IPOB leader to file the court documents he needs for his case coming.

“Because of these actions, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu may not be able to appear in court on Friday, not because he does not want to, but because he has been denied the chance to get ready and defend himself.

The family accused the DSS of the following against their son: “Stopping his visitors, including family members, lawyers and recording his meetings with lawyers and family, instead of allowing private and free discussion as required by law.

“Refusing to give him access to a computer and printer necessary for the preparation of his processes and blocking him from filing his own court papers.

“Declining to take him to the court registry to submit the documents he intends to use for his defence.”

The release stated that these actions are against the Nigerian Constitution and basic human rights. It added that every accused person has the right to facilities to help him prepare adequately and to interact freely with their lawyers, family, witnesses, prepare for court, and defend themselves, but that in the case of Kanu, the reverse is the case.

The family described the DSS action as unfair, unlawful, and intentional, stressing that they are making it difficult for Kanu to defend himself so that the case can be decided against him.

“If Mazi Nnamdi Kanu cannot appear in court or defend himself, the DSS and the Nigerian Government should be held responsible. They are frustrating him, ignoring court orders, and breaking his rights.

“We are issuing this warning now before they start peddling their propaganda that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is disrespectful to the court by declining to appear.”

The family on the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, the Commonwealth and other world bodies and Human rights groups to pay close attention to what is happening to their son.

The sun