IPOB Rejects Justice Omotosho’s Ruling, Says Burden of Proof Lies With Prosecution

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has criticized the latest remarks of Justice Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, over the ongoing trial of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement signed by Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, the group condemned the judge’s comment that Kanu “will need to explain certain things” during proceedings.

IPOB questioned the legal basis of the remark, arguing that:

Section 36(11) of the Nigerian Constitution prohibits compelling any defendant to testify against themselves.

The burden of proof rests solely with the prosecution, not the accused.

Kanu cannot be expected to address alleged gaps in a case that IPOB says relies on contradictory witnesses, missing investigation reports, and a repealed law.

The movement said the statement underscores what it views as judicial bias in Abuja courts, claiming that some judges prioritize government interests over the rule of law.

“By demanding that our leader explain, Justice Omotosho is not applying the law; he is aiding persecution,” IPOB said.

The group reiterated that both it and Kanu stand on the side of truth and international law, and urged the Nigerian judiciary to “stop shifting the burden onto an innocent man whose only ‘crime’ is demanding self-determination.”