Charles Ogba, Abuja.
Court Adjourns Kanu’s Case Indefinitely
Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has indefinitely adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The decision was made on Monday following Kanu’s objection to Justice Nyako presiding over his case, citing her previous recusal.
Kanu had been scheduled to appear in court for a hearing on February 10, 2025. However, in January, he submitted a petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC), alleging judicial misconduct by Justice Nyako in handling his trial.
Courtroom Disruption and Kanu’s Objection
During the resumed hearing, Kanu was expected to file a motion detailing why Justice Nyako should recuse herself. This session followed a prior court order on September 24, in which the judge had withdrawn from the case.
Kanu’s lead counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, raised concerns about his client’s presence in court despite the judge’s earlier withdrawal. He clarified that the defense team appeared solely to honor the court proceedings.
In response, Justice Nyako explained that after stepping down, she had forwarded the case file to the Chief Judge for reassignment. However, the Chief Judge returned the case to her, instructing her to hear and rule on the motion on notice. She then directed the defense team to formally file a motion stating their reasons for requesting her recusal.
Kanu Dismisses Lawyers, Disrupts Proceedings
At this point, Kanu interrupted the session, instructing his lawyers to step aside while he represented himself. He argued that the Chief Judge had no authority to impose a lawyer on him and insisted he could only challenge the court’s decision through an appeal.
Despite efforts by both the defense and prosecution teams to proceed with scheduling a hearing date, Kanu repeatedly interjected. He also accused Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the lead prosecution counsel, of subverting legal procedures.
Legal Implications and Observers’ Reactions
Following the disruptions, Justice Nyako adjourned the case sine die (indefinitely), leaving the trial’s future uncertain.
Observers and legal analysts have expressed concern over Kanu’s persistent defiance of the judicial process, with many noting that in other jurisdictions, contempt of court of this nature would have resulted in a six-month prison sentence per offense, even as the substantive case proceeded.
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