Human rights lawyer Christopher Chidera has criticized the Kenyan government for failing to protect Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), when he was allegedly abducted and illegally taken to Nigeria in June 2021. Chidera claims that Kenya not only failed in its duty but also played a role in the unlawful process.

According to Chidera, Kanu was taken by force at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi on June 19, 2021. He was allegedly seized by armed operatives, believed to be from Kenya and Nigeria, without a warrant or any legal process. Chidera states that Kanu was detained in a secret location near the airport for eight days, where he was:

• Chained to the floor
• Beaten and treated inhumanely
• Denied access to basic sanitation and medication
• Tortured until he lost consciousness

Despite Kenya’s denial of involvement, Chidera argues that the way Kanu was handed over to Nigeria clearly violated Kenyan and international laws. There was no formal extradition request from Nigeria, and no court proceedings took place before he was transferred.

Chidera highlights that Kenya ignored its own legal protections, including:

• Article 29 of the Kenyan Constitution (2010): Prohibits arbitrary detention and torture.
• Kenyan Extradition Act (1968): Requires a legal process before extradition.
• International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR): Mandates due process for deportation.
• UN Convention Against Torture (1984): Prohibits sending individuals to countries where they may be tortured.

Since Kanu had previously suffered ill-treatment in Nigeria between 2015 and 2017, Chidera argues that Kenya’s actions were a direct violation of its international obligations. He also criticizes Kenya for ignoring the “Doctrine of Specialty,” which ensures that an extradited person is prosecuted only for the offenses specified in the request.

Chidera believes that Kenya either directly participated in or allowed the violation of Kanu’s rights. He urges human rights organizations and international legal bodies to investigate the matter and hold Kenya accountable.

“This case not only harmed Kanu but also damaged Kenya’s image as a country that follows the rule of law,” Chidera stated.

The controversy surrounding Kanu’s abduction has sparked discussions about government accountability and human rights protection across Africa and beyond.