A Federal High Court in Owerri, Imo State, has ruled that Chika Edoziem, a key leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is not guilty of terrorism, insurgency, or other criminal activities.

The court also declared that the Nigerian government violated his rights by labeling him a terrorist.

Edoziem, who is a top figure in IPOB and second in command to Nnamdi Kanu, was previously declared wanted and named a security threat by the government.

However, Justice I.N. Oweibo ruled that this declaration was illegal and went against Edoziem’s fundamental human rights.

The judge found that the publication of Edoziem’s name and photo in a government document on March 22, 2024, was unconstitutional.

As a result, the court ordered the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff to retract the declaration, publish a public apology in two national newspapers, and pay Edoziem N5 million in compensation for violating his rights.

This ruling is a major victory for Edoziem and IPOB, as it highlights the importance of protecting human rights and ensuring justice is served.