The Federal High Court in Abuja has indefinitely adjourned the terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following his protest against Judge Binta Nyako’s continued handling of the case.
Kanu Rejects Judge, Demands Recusal
During Monday’s court session, Kanu openly challenged the judge’s impartiality, stating that he was unhappy with the Chief Judge’s decision to return the case to Nyako. He insisted that she had previously recused herself and should not continue presiding over his trial.
Despite attempts by prosecutor Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) to push for a definite trial date, Kanu refused to proceed under Nyako, leading her to suspend the case indefinitely.
Legal Battle and Courtroom Drama
Kanu, who has been in State Security Service (SSS) custody since 2021, faces charges of terrorism and treasonable felony linked to IPOB’s agitation for an independent Biafra nation.
In court, his defense lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, reaffirmed Kanu’s stance, stating:
“The defendant is still asking that your lordship recuse herself from this matter.”
In response, Judge Nyako clarified that the Chief Judge had not accepted her recusal and had reassigned the case to her. She advised Kanu’s legal team to file a formal motion if they wanted her removed.
However, Kanu remained defiant, leading Nyako to adjourn the trial indefinitely.
Kanu Criticizes Judiciary, Lashes Out in Court
After the court session, a visibly frustrated Kanu accused Nigerian authorities of disregarding legal procedures, claiming that “poor knowledge of the law is killing Nigeria.”
Pointing at prosecutor Awomolo, Kanu criticized him for allegedly misinterpreting the law, saying:
“An old man like this doesn’t know the law. You don’t know the law.”
Turning to journalists in the courtroom, he added:
“This is the law of Nigeria. The prosecution and this court don’t know the law. That is the fact.”
As tensions flared, Kanu chided a member of his legal team, smacking him on the back for interrupting his speech.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
Kanu’s trial has faced multiple delays, with Judge Nyako recusing herself in September 2024 after Kanu openly declared lack of confidence in her. However, Chief Judge John Tsoho later returned the case to her, insisting that any request for recusal must be formally filed.
With the trial now indefinitely suspended, Kanu’s legal team has suggested that if no Abuja judge is willing to preside over the case, it should be transferred to a court in the South-East.
For now, Kanu remains in detention, and the next steps in his trial remain uncertain.
