The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has refused Justice Binta Nyako’s request to step down from presiding over the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Justice Tsoho determined that Justice Nyako is best positioned to continue overseeing the case, given her long-standing involvement since 2015 and the fact that two other judges had already recused themselves.
IPOB: Nnamdi Kanu Request
A source familiar with the decision shared with DAILY POST that Justice Tsoho’s refusal to reassign the case was influenced by several factors, including concerns about further delays and Justice Nyako’s familiarity with the case. The source noted that “Justice Binta has handled the case for the longest period, making her the best-suited judge to continue and conclude the matter.”
The Chief Judge further directed that if, at the next hearing, Kanu insists on requesting her recusal, he must submit a formal motion with an affidavit stating his reasons for lack of confidence in her ability to impartially oversee his trial.
This development comes after Justice Nyako recently withdrew from the case when Kanu openly expressed concerns about her impartiality, citing a lack of confidence in her judgement during court proceedings. Kanu’s legal team had raised doubts about her ability to deliver an unbiased ruling, leading her to offer to step down.
Justice Nyako has handled several stages of the case over the years, including key rulings related to Kanu’s bail and the legal proceedings surrounding his rendition from Kenya in 2021. However, Kanu’s consistent demands for her recusal have raised tensions in the courtroom.
The Chief Judge’s refusal to allow the recusal underscores the judicial system’s commitment to ensuring that the trial proceeds without unnecessary delays, particularly given the high-profile nature of the case and the political and legal complexities surrounding it.
Kanu’s trial has drawn significant attention, both within Nigeria and internationally, due to the controversial charges and the broader context of the Biafran independence movement.
Justice Tsoho’s decision emphasises the importance of continuity in the legal process and the need to conclude the trial in a timely manner. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen how Kanu’s legal team will respond to the Chief Judge’s directive and whether they will file the required motion to request a new judge.
Justice Nyako’s involvement in Kanu’s case has been one of the most high-profile assignments of her judicial career. The decision to continue with her presiding over the trial could have significant implications for the case’s outcome and the ongoing tensions between the Nigerian government and IPOB supporters.
