Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Monday, questioned the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in Abuja over his ongoing terrorism trial. His protest came as Justice Binta Nyako resumed hearing the case, but despite his objections, the judge adjourned proceedings indefinitely.
Kanu, who was extradited to Nigeria in June 2021, has been in detention ever since, facing terrorism-related charges. His trial faced delays after Justice Nyako stepped down from the case on September 24, 2024, following an oral application from Kanu, who expressed a lack of confidence in her impartiality. However, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, reassigned the case back to Nyako, stating that Kanu’s request must be submitted as a formal motion.
Subsequently, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo, sent a letter on December 5, 2024, requesting a trial date. In response, Kanu’s defense counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, countered in a letter dated December 9, 2024, insisting that Justice Nyako’s recusal should remain in effect. Ejimakor also suggested that if no judge in Abuja was available to hear the case, it should be transferred to a Federal High Court in the South-East. However, this request was not granted.
During Monday’s hearing, Justice Nyako stated that the chief judge had not approved her withdrawal from the case and advised Kanu’s legal team to submit a formal written application if they still sought her recusal. Meanwhile, the prosecution maintained that they were prepared to proceed, with witnesses ready to testify.
Expressing frustration, Kanu rejected the court’s authority, arguing that Justice Nyako’s previous recusal should stand. He criticized Nigeria’s legal system, stating that a lack of proper judicial knowledge was undermining the country.
The prosecution objected to Kanu’s remarks, accusing him of disrespecting the court and requesting a fixed trial date. Despite the ongoing dispute, Justice Nyako ruled to adjourn the case indefinitely.
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