These individuals had been facing treason and conspiracy charges since 2020, but Justice I.P. Chima ruled that retrial was unconstitutional, citing Section 36(9) of the Nigerian Constitution — no one should face trial twice for the same offense.
The court ordered their immediate release, declaring their prolonged detention a violation of their fundamental rights. Celebrating the verdict, IPOB’s lead counsel Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor hailed the ruling as a “historic victory for justice” and urged the state to provide rehabilitation and compensation to the freed citizens.
“Justice delayed, but NOT denied,” Ejiofor said, marking the end of a painful 4-year struggle.
