The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has urged the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court to transfer his trial to the Southeast if no judge in Abuja is willing to take on his case. This call follows Justice Binta Nyako’s recusal, which Kanu insists should remain binding.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, after a meeting at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility, Kanu emphasized the need for adherence to constitutional procedures in his ongoing trial.
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Key Points:
- Demand for Case Transfer:
Kanu expressed readiness to continue his trial under a new judge, suggesting Federal High Courts in locations like Umuahia, Awka, Enugu, or Asaba as alternatives. - Justice Nyako’s Recusal:
Kanu reiterated that Justice Nyako, who recused herself on September 24, 2024, must not preside over his trial, as restarting the case under her would violate the court’s own order. - Legal Team’s Strategy:
Kanu’s legal team has been instructed to take necessary steps to ensure that Justice Nyako does not resume handling the case, emphasizing fairness and judicial compliance. - Call for Southeast Jurisdiction:
Highlighting the alleged offenses’ location within the Southeast, Kanu argued for the trial to take place in courts closer to the region, if necessary.
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Justice Nyako stepped down from Kanu’s trial after he raised concerns about impartiality and requested her withdrawal. The case file was subsequently transferred to Chief Judge John Tsoho.
Nnamdi Kanu’s demand for a case transfer underscores his ongoing push for a fair trial, reflecting his concerns about judicial independence and adherence to legal protocols. All eyes are now on the Chief Judge’s decision regarding the trial’s jurisdiction.