Enugu, Nigeria – The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued an official clarification regarding payments made for the legal representation of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, stating that a total of $100,000 was transferred to accounts linked to Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, on direct instructions from Kanu himself.
In a statement dated March 5, 2026, Madam Nnennaya Anya, Head of the IPOB Finance Directorate, disclosed that the funds were disbursed in two installments specifically for purposes related to Kanu's defense amid his ongoing trial on charges including treasonable felony and terrorism. The payment, she emphasized, was authorized solely by Kanu (referred to as Onyendu) and executed transparently within the organization's financial structures.
According to the statement, the breakdown of the transaction is as follows:
First installment: $80,000.00 USD
Second installment: $20,000.00 USD
The total sum of One Hundred Thousand United States Dollars ($100,000.00 USD) was directed to accounts designated by Chief Ozekhome, a prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria who previously led aspects of Kanu's legal team. Madam Anya affirmed that all records and documentation of the transfers are available for verification by relevant IPOB structures if required.
The clarification aims to promote transparency, ensure accountability, and counter any misinformation or speculation that has circulated regarding the handling of funds for Kanu's legal expenses. IPOB has long maintained that supporting its leader's defense is a core commitment in the pursuit of justice and self-determination for the Biafran cause.
Chief Mike Ozekhome, a renowned constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, has been associated with Kanu's case since at least 2022, when he assumed a prominent role in the defense team following earlier representations. Historical records show Ozekhome leading arguments in court, including challenges to the competence of charges brought by the Federal Government. Kanu's trial has involved multiple amendments to charges, appeals, and significant legal maneuvers, with the case drawing widespread attention both domestically and internationally.
The statement notably references payments to accounts designated by Ozekhome but does not elaborate on any involvement of Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor in the specific transaction detailed. Ejiofor, who served as lead counsel for Kanu for several years prior to changes in the legal team around 2022–2023, has previously denied receiving professional fees for his services, insisting they were rendered pro bono. Recent public exchanges have included denials and challenges for evidence regarding alleged payments to both lawyers.
This disclosure emerges against the backdrop of Kanu's prolonged detention since his rendition to Nigeria in 2021, his conviction and life imprisonment sentencing in November 2025 on terrorism-related charges, and ongoing debates within pro-Biafra circles about legal strategies, funding, and leadership dynamics. IPOB's Directorate of State (DOS) has consistently positioned itself as the authentic leadership structure answerable to Kanu, while internal discussions have occasionally highlighted tensions over financial management and legal approaches.
Madam Anya's statement concludes with a prayer for divine guidance and protection over the struggle, signed on behalf of IPOB and dated March 5, 2026. The release underscores the organization's emphasis on internal accountability, particularly in financial matters tied to the high-profile defense of its leader.
Observers note that such public clarifications are intended to maintain unity among supporters and dispel rumors that could undermine fundraising or morale. IPOB continues to advocate for Kanu's release, framing his case as emblematic of broader injustices against the Igbo people and the quest for Biafran self-determination.
The full statement has been circulated through IPOB channels, with Madam Anya stressing that the transaction was conducted strictly in line with directives from Kanu and for no other purpose.
