Federal Court Declares IPOB Leader’s Classification as Terrorist Illegal
By Mary Obi
A Federal High Court of Owerri, Imo State, presided over by Hon. Justice I.N. Oweibo, in a ruling on Thursday, February 20, declared the wrongful classification of Mazi Chika Edoziem as a wanted person, terrorist, insurgent, kidnapper, and violent criminal by the Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence Staff as illegal.
The judgment was delivered in a suit No FHC/OW/FHR/29/2024, in the case of Mazi Chika Edoziem versus the Hon. Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence Staff.
Chika Edoziem, who heads the Directorate of State of the Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) as the second in command to Nnamdi Kanu, had his rights violated with the publication of his name and image in the Ministry of Defence’s First Edition of 2024, labeling him a security threat.
As a result of the court’s ruling: the Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence Staff were directed to retract the unconstitutional designation of Mazi Chika Edoziem and issue an unreserved public apology in two national newspapers.
- A compensation of ₦5,000,000.00 (Five Million Naira) was awarded to Mazi Chika Edoziem for the infringement of his fundamental right to dignity of the human person.
- Ejiofor said: “Notably, among the many names listed in the said Notice, Mazi Chika Edoziem was the only one who successfully challenged this illegal publication or inclusion of his revered name in the offending publication.
“His global reputation as a peace advocate stands in sharp contrast to the blatant false allegations. This judgment is a strong statement against unjust profiling and underscores the importance of due process in security matters.”
While calling for accountability, Ejiofor said, “Security agencies must focus on proper profiling to identify actual criminals rather than targeting innocent citizens. The real perpetrators of crime operate in known locations, and tackling insecurity requires collective responsibility beyond just the security forces.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my dedicated colleagues in Chambers whose relentless efforts made this victory possible. Special thanks to Ezigbo Umuchineke for their unwavering support and prayers, and whose peaceful conduct has enabled seamless defence in matters affecting genuine and peaceful agitators.
“Above all, I thank Almighty God for His guidance and protection throughout the proceedings.
“Justice has prevailed, and we march forward with renewed faith in the rule of law;
Even as we continue to move!”
