ABUJA — Preparations are complete for the launch of Judicial Terrorism: A Macabre Trial and Death Sentences on Major-General Zamani Lekwot and Five Others, a new book detailing the contentious 1992 Zangon Kataf crisis and the legal battles that followed. Written by veteran journalist and Nigerian Guild of Editors member Richard Akinnola Esq., the 114-page book will be officially unveiled on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja.
Prominent human rights lawyer Chief Femi Falana, SAN, will review the book, with former National Human Rights Commission Chairman Prof. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu presiding over the event. Senator Danjuma Laah (Shettiman Kagoro) will serve as the chief launcher, and Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani is scheduled to attend as the special guest of honor, alongside Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Gwabin Musa and other dignitaries.
The book, which includes a foreword by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, delves into the judicial processes surrounding Major-General Lekwot’s trial. Reflecting on the publication, Lekwot expressed gratitude for the opportunity to set the record straight, stating, “I feel fulfilled to be alive to witness this landmark publication, which gives the true picture of what really transpired during and after the Zangon Kataf crisis.”
The retired major-general and former military governor of Rivers State criticized the “weaponized and false narrative” circulated about his role in the crisis. “The irresponsible accusations leveled against me by people in high places were akin to giving a dog a bad name to hang it,” he said. “I was shamelessly framed up by my enemies who lacked the courage to tell me where I had wronged them, if ever.”
The launch will also feature Senator Sunday Marshall Katung and Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji, along with the royal father of the day, HRH Sir Dominic Gambo Yahaya, KSM Agwatyap, paramount ruler of Atyap Chiefdom. The event promises to shed light on a pivotal moment in Nigerian history and bring new insights into Lekwot’s story and the broader impact of the crisis.
