Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial Reassigned to New Judge Amid Legal Dispute

By: Manoah kikekon 

IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu [Photo credit: Sahara Reporters]

The alleged terrorism case against Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been reassigned to a new judge following a series of legal maneuvers and administrative interventions.

The decision was confirmed in separate letters from the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court (FHC), John Tsoho. The letters, addressed to Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, mark a significant development in the long-running legal battle.

Justice Binta Nyako, who had been handling the case, indefinitely adjourned proceedings on February 10 after recusing herself on September 24, 2024. Kanu’s legal team had persistently called for the case to be reassigned, citing concerns over due process and his right to a fair trial.

Ejimakor welcomed the reassignment, describing it as a "momentous" step, while Kanu expressed gratitude to the CJN for her swift intervention. The IPOB leader maintains his innocence and has reiterated his readiness to face trial.

With the case now in new hands, Kanu’s legal team is preparing for the next phase of the proceedings, determined to ensure a fair and lawful trial.