The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has hit another major roadblock as his lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, insists that Justice Binta Nyako can no longer preside over the case. Ejimakor argues that the judge lacks the constitutional authority to continue the trial, citing allegations of judicial misconduct and procedural violations that have spanned several years.
Justice Nyako, who previously recused herself from the case following demands from IPOB, resumed proceedings after the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, refused to reassign the matter. However, after a brief hearing on Monday, she adjourned the trial indefinitely. Ejimakor, in a statement, maintained that Kanu had filed a formal petition against the judge on January 14, 2025, and that it would be improper for her to continue handling the case while the complaint remains unresolved.
According to Ejimakor, Kanu’s trial has been marred by serious constitutional breaches, including his remand in DSS custody without prior notice to his legal team, refusal to reinstate bail despite a Supreme Court ruling, and the court’s failure to examine the legality of his extradition from Kenya. He further criticized the judge’s decision to keep Kanu in DSS detention instead of a regular prison facility, arguing that it unfairly restricts his right to a fair trial.
With no other judge in Abuja willing to take over the case, Ejimakor is calling for its immediate transfer to the Southeast, where the alleged offenses were committed. He warned that keeping Kanu in detention indefinitely without trial is a violation of his constitutional rights, urging the government to either proceed with the case lawfully or release him.
Kanu has remained in detention since June 2021, following what his legal team describes as an illegal extraordinary rendition. With the trial now stalled and legal disputes mounting, the path forward remains uncertain.
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