Chief Judge Directs Return of Nnamdi Kanu’s Case to Justice Nyako for Continued Hearing

 

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has ordered that the treason trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), be returned to Justice Binta Nyako for continuation. This decision comes after Justice Nyako had recused herself from the case on September 24, following Kanu’s request for her to step down due to his lack of confidence in her ability to ensure a fair trial.

Justice Tsoho's directive stipulates that Justice Nyako must continue to preside over the case, with Kanu required to formally submit an application, supported by an affidavit, outlining the reasons for his request for a different judge. The prosecution will also be given the opportunity to respond to Kanu’s application, after which Justice Nyako will conduct a hearing and make a ruling on whether to withdraw from the case or continue.

The condition set by Justice Tsoho aims to prevent a repeat of what transpired in a money laundering case involving former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam. In that case, the Court of Appeal overruled Justice Ahmed Mohammed’s decision to withdraw, citing that the withdrawal was not properly conducted, as no proceedings were held to allow parties to address the court on whether the judge should step aside.

This latest development marks the third time a judge has withdrawn from Kanu’s case at the defendant’s request. It remains to be seen how Justice Nyako will rule following the upcoming hearing.