Justice Nyako Recuses Herself from Nnamdi Kanu’s Terrorism Trial

Justice Nyako Recuses Herself from Nnamdi Kanu’s Terrorism Trial

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has recused herself from the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following oral applications by Kanu and his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, during Tuesday’s resumed hearing of the seven-count terrorism charge filed by the Federal Government.

The Federal Government’s lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, indicated readiness to continue with the trial. However, Kanu’s lawyer requested an adjournment due to pending appeals challenging the court’s jurisdiction.

Awomolo argued that a criminal trial shouldn’t be stalled by pending appeals, suggesting the defence should seek a stay of proceedings in the appellate court.

Justice Nyako insisted on proceeding without delays, stating that no applications would be entertained until the trial’s conclusion. However, tension rose when Kanu, visibly agitated, interrupted his lawyer, expressing a lack of confidence in the court and demanding that Justice Nyako withdraw from the case, citing non-compliance with a Supreme Court ruling.

Despite Awomolo’s counter-argument on the Supreme Court’s 2023 judgment, Justice Nyako decided to recuse herself, stating that she couldn’t continue the trial if Kanu had no confidence in the court. She directed that the case file be transferred to the Chief Judge for further action, marking an unexpected turn in the high-profile trial.