Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has called on legal regulatory bodies in Nigeria to sanction one of the lawyers representing the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, Aloy Ejimakor, for participating in the ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanu protest holding in Abuja today October 20.

In a post shared on his X handle on Monday, October 20, Onanuga criticised Ejimakor for joining the demonstration organised by Omoyele Sowore, human rights activist and former presidential candidate.

According to the presidential aide, Ejimakor’s participation in the protest undermines legal ethics, given that Kanu’s case is still before a competent court. He wrote

‘’ I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore. I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest. As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court. The prosecution has concluded its case, and it is now incumbent upon Mr. Ejimakor and the other lawyers to mount a strong defence for Kanu.

Rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist, to influence the process. Ejimakor’s action questions his adherence to professional ethics. Legal authorities should consider appropriate sanctions for the unethical conduct of the bearded lawyer.''