South‑East Backlash Over Kanu Conviction Could Shape 2027 Votes, Lawyer Says

Legal adviser to Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, Aloy Ejimakor, has warned that rising frustration in the South‑East over Kanu’s conviction may affect voter behaviour in the 2027 general elections if not addressed quickly.

Ejimakor said his comments on Sunday follow conversations he had with communities across the South‑East during the Christmas and New Year period, where many residents expressed deep dissatisfaction with Kanu’s conviction and treatment.

In his statement, he highlighted that people he spoke to view the conviction as a key political concern and could make their discontent felt at the polls.

He also raised concerns about Kanu’s transfer to a correctional facility in Sokoto, arguing that the distance from Abuja could hinder his ability to properly pursue an appeal, potentially violating his constitutional rights under Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.

Ejimakor, who formerly served as Kanu’s Special Counsel, said the appeal process demands close access to the courts and legal resources—something made difficult by the transfer.