The Okwu-Kanu family has criticized the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for remaining silent on what they describe as the unlawful trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a statement signed by Prince Emmanuel Kanu, the family said the NBA has failed in its duty to uphold the rule of law while Kanu is being tried under a repealed law, the Terrorism (Prevention Amendment) Act 2013. They argue that the current trial violates Section 36(12) of the 1999 Constitution, which requires that a person be tried only under a law in force at the time of trial.

The family also highlighted that the trial lacks jurisdiction, as no foreign country, including Kenya, has accused Kanu of any crime—making the double criminality requirement under the 2022 Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act unmet.

The statement accuses the NBA of aiding injustice by silence, normalizing abuses, and undermining the Constitution. It calls on the association to:

• Publicly acknowledge that no one can be tried under a repealed law.
• Affirm the necessity of double criminality for jurisdiction.
• Speak out against judicial misconduct where courts ignore constitutional limits.

The family warned that the NBA’s inaction has broader consequences, potentially affecting many Nigerians who may be detained under invalid charges.

“The rule of law in Nigeria is slowly dying, and the NBA’s silence is part of the reason,” the statement said.

The Okwu-Kanu family urged the NBA to act, defend the Constitution, and uphold its responsibility to the legal profession.