By Erewunmi Peace

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has claimed that it paid a total of $100,000 in legal fees to lawyers representing its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

According to a statement reportedly issued by the group’s finance department, the payment was made to senior lawyer Mike Ozekhome (SAN) and Kanu’s long-time counsel Ifeanyi Ejiofor for legal services related to Kanu’s ongoing court case.

IPOB explained that the payment was made in two instalments, consisting of $80,000 as the first payment and $20,000 as the second payment.
The group stated that the funds were released on the instruction of Kanu to support his legal defence team.

The disclosure comes amid discussions surrounding the legal representation of the IPOB leader, who has been facing trial in Nigeria on charges brought by the Federal Government.

However, the claim has generated debate, as Ejiofor had previously suggested that some of the legal services provided were done on a pro bono basis.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no independent confirmation from the lawyers involved regarding the exact amount paid.

Kanu, the leader of IPOB, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) while his trial continues at the **Federal High Court in Abuja.

Further updates are expected as more details emerge regarding the claims.