The proscribe leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, caused a stir in court on Monday, clashing with his legal team and denouncing the presiding judge, Justice Binta Nyako.
After the proceedings, Kanu arrogantly instructed one of his lawyer “do not talk when I am taking” and even physically hitting one of them. The altercation occurred after Justice Binta Nyako indefinitely adjourned the trial.
Kanu, facing terrorism charges from the Federal Government, insisted that Justice Nyako was unfit to handle his case. Nyako had previously recused herself from the matter on September 24, 2024, after Kanu’s oral application. However, Chief Judge John Tsoho reassigned the case to her, stating that a formal motion was required to validate her recusal.
The prosecution, represented by Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the court to schedule a trial date. However, Kanu’s legal counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, opposed the move, arguing that Nyako’s recusal remained in effect unless overturned through due process.
Seeking a fair hearing, Kanu’s team requested a transfer to a Federal High Court in the South-Eastern; The request was denied, and he was ordered to appear before Justice Nyako once again. Although the South East residents had rejected Kanu trial to transfer to the region, citing serious security risks.
During the hearing, as arguments ensued over procedural matters, Kanu interjected, demanding to speak. When the judge asked if he wished to represent himself, he defiantly responded, “Yes, I want to take over.”
Kanu openly challenged the court’s authority, stating, “I am only here out of respect, but this judge has no jurisdiction over my case. Everything said here is meaningless to me.” He further accused the judiciary of bias and political interference, alleging that Nyako’s involvement was linked to corruption charges against her family.
Addressing the prosecution, Kanu remarked, “A grown man like you should be in the village ensuring justice, not subverting the law.”
His defiance escalated as he declared, “You cannot preside over my case—now, today, or ever. You are biased, and I do not need you.”
Following his refusal to file a formal motion challenging the reassignment, Awomolo pressed for a trial date. In response, Justice Nyako adjourned the case indefinitely.
Speaking afterward, Kanu reiterated his claims of judicial bias, accusing the court of prioritizing political interests over justice. He asserted that the Supreme Court had acknowledged the violations against him, condemning the government’s insistence on prosecuting him despite previous rulings.
With the trial now in limbo, the legal battle surrounding Kanu’s case remains a highly contentious issue, further deepening the ongoing political and legal crisis.
