Is this the beginning of another legal deadlock in the high-profile trial of Nnamdi Kanu? The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) returned to the Federal High Court on Monday, only to fiercely challenge its authority over his case. But in a dramatic twist, Justice Binta Nyako adjourned the trial indefinitely, leaving many wondering what’s next for Kanu?
A Courtroom Standoff
Kanu, who has been in detention since June 2021 following his extradition to Nigeria, made it clear that he does not recognize Justice Nyako’s jurisdiction. His trial had previously been stalled when the judge recused herself in September 2024 after Kanu explicitly stated he had no confidence in her handling of the case.
However, in a controversial move, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, reassigned the case back to Justice Nyako, insisting that Kanu must file a formal motion if he seeks a different judge.
This decision sparked outrage from Kanu and his legal team. His lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, argued that since the judge had already recused herself, she could not preside over the case again. Ejimakor further suggested that if no judge in Abuja was willing to handle the case, it should be transferred to a Federal High Court in the South-East.
Prosecution Pushes for Trial
Despite the legal back-and-forth, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo, maintained that they were ready to proceed. Awomolo emphasized that his witnesses were prepared and urged the court to set a definite trial date. However, with the defence team refusing to submit a formal application, Justice Nyako ruled to adjourn the case indefinitely.
Kanu’s Defiant Stand
In a heated courtroom exchange, Kanu did not hold back. Questioning why he was being brought before Justice Nyako, he declared that he does not recognize her authority. He expressed frustration over the Chief Judge’s decision to reassign the case to her, insisting that the prosecution has no legal grounds to try him.
“Poor knowledge of the court system is affecting Nigeria,” Kanu remarked, emphasizing his dissatisfaction with the judicial process. The leader of the indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has alleged that Justice Binta Nyako is using her judicial position to serve personal interests. Kanu claims that the judge is pushing for his conviction to secure leniency for her husband and son, who are reportedly facing corruption charges.
He argues that this raises serious concerns about impartiality in his ongoing trial. Authorities have yet to respond to these allegations.
The prosecution quickly objected to Kanu’s statements, calling them an insult to the court. But the judge stood firm on her decision—no trial date, no clear path forward.
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With the case now in legal limbo, uncertainty looms. One thing is certain—this high-stakes legal battle is far from over. Will Kanu’s legal team file a formal motion to seek another judge? Will the prosecution push harder for trial proceedings to commence? More importantly, what does this indefinite adjournment mean for this case’s larger political and legal implications? Or is this a case of judicial bias or legal maneuvering? Share your thoughts!