Abuja, Nigeria – The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been adjourned indefinitely after a dramatic court session where he rejected the judge’s authority to preside over his case.
Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja had earlier recused herself from the case in September 2024 but was later reassigned by the Chief Judge, Justice John Tsoho.
.
However, Kanu objected, arguing that her decision to step down should remain final.
Courtroom Drama as Kanu Takes Over Defense
During the session on Monday, February 10, 2025, Kanu insisted that Justice Nyako could no longer handle his case, accusing the judiciary of bias and injustice.
At one point, he took over from his lawyers and engaged in a heated exchange with the judge and prosecution team.
“I don’t recognize the authority of this court to preside over my case,” Kanu declared, claiming that the Chief Judge’s memo returning the case to Nyako could not override her earlier ruling.
Despite efforts by government lawyer Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) to proceed with the trial, Kanu remained defiant, demanding the transfer of his case to a Federal High Court in the South-East.
What’s Next for Kanu?
With Justice Nyako adjourning the case indefinitely, Kanu was escorted back to the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
It remains unclear when his trial will resume or whether a new judge will be assigned.
Meanwhile, legal experts believe the Chief Judge may intervene again, but Kanu’s strong opposition could delay proceedings further.
Public Reaction and Political Implications
The indefinite adjournment has sparked debates across Nigeria, with supporters of IPOB demanding a fair trial and critics arguing that Kanu’s courtroom outbursts could affect his case negatively.
What do you think about the latest development in Nnamdi Kanu’s trial? Should the judiciary assign a new judge or proceed with the current one? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Leave a Reply