Nnamdi Kanu Apologizes for Attacks on Federal High Court, Justice Nyako

Nnamdi Kanu Apologizes for Attacks on Federal High Court, Justice Nyako

The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Friday, publicly apologized for his recent verbal attacks on the Federal High Court and Justice Binta Nyako. Kanu extended his apology through his new legal representative, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, a former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice.

Kanu also expressed remorse towards the Federal Government’s lawyer, Chief Awomolo, SAN, and his previous legal team, which was led by Aloy Ejimakor. He acknowledged that his criticisms were made in a moment of frustration and conveyed his regrets.

This development occurred before Justice James Omotosho, the newly assigned trial judge handling Kanu’s case. Upon the resumption of proceedings, Chief Agabi sought the court’s permission to deliver Kanu’s message of apology. Justice Omotosho granted the request after discussions with the prosecution’s legal counsel.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Justice Omotosho has set March 21 for the continuation of Kanu’s trial. The reassignment of the case follows Justice Binta Nyako’s withdrawal from the matter on September 24, 2024, citing the defendant’s lack of confidence in the court.

Kanu’s legal team had previously demanded the transfer of the terrorism charges against him to another judge, alleging bias. This led the Chief Judge (CJ) of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, to reassign the case. However, the CJ initially returned the case to Justice Nyako, insisting that a formal application must be made before her recusal could be accepted. Following further legal arguments, Justice Nyako adjourned the case indefinitely, prompting the reassignment to Justice Omotosho.

Kanu, who was extradited from Kenya in June 2021, is now expected to take a fresh plea as his trial restarts. His legal battles have seen multiple changes in judges, including Justice Ahmed Mohammed (now elevated to the Court of Appeal) and Justice John Tsoho (who later became the Chief Judge). The legal proceedings continue to be a focal point of national interest, with many awaiting further developments in the case.

As the March 21 trial date approaches, legal experts and political observers will be keenly watching how the court handles the matter, particularly in light of Kanu’s public apology and his defense team’s evolving legal strategy.

Nnamdi Kanu