Court assigns new judge to handle Kanu’s trial

DDM News

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice John Tsoho, has reassigned Nnamdi Kanu’s case to another judge.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports that this decision follows prolonged legal battles and controversies surrounding the handling of Kanu’s trial.

Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, announced the development in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

His legal team had earlier challenged the involvement of Justice Binta Nyako, citing concerns over fairness and impartiality.

Although Justice Nyako initially recused herself and returned the case file, the file was later reassigned to her.

Kanu strongly objected to this move, insisting that another judge should preside over his case.

Background: Kanu’s unlawful detention and legal struggles

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in detention since June 2021 following his arrest and extradition.

The Federal Government charged him with terrorism-related offenses, but his detention has sparked widespread criticism.

In October 2022, the Court of Appeal in Abuja discharged and acquitted Kanu, ruling that his extradition from Kenya was illegal.

Despite the ruling, the Federal Government refused to release him, citing national security concerns.

Human rights organizations, political groups, and international bodies have repeatedly condemned his continued detention.

Kanu’s supporters argue that he is being held unlawfully in violation of both Nigerian and international laws.

Kanu’s legal team demands fair reassignment

On February 20, Kanu’s legal team wrote to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, requesting her intervention.

They argued that Justice Nyako’s continued involvement in the trial would compromise Kanu’s right to a fair hearing.

On March 7, Kanu’s legal team received two official letters regarding his case.

One letter came from the Chief Justice of Nigeria, responding to their plea for administrative action.

The second letter was from the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, confirming that the case had been reassigned.

Ejimakor described the letters as a significant victory in ensuring fairness in Kanu’s trial.

He stated that this reassignment marks a crucial step toward upholding Kanu’s constitutional rights.

Kanu expresses gratitude and prepares for trial

Upon receiving the letters, Kanu instructed his legal team to publicly thank the Chief Justice for her swift response.

He also expressed deep appreciation to the public for supporting the demand for a fair reassignment of his case.

Kanu reaffirmed his readiness to stand trial, maintaining that he is innocent of all charges.

However, he noted that legal irregularities over the past six months had severely affected his constitutional rights.

His lawyers argued that these delays and inconsistencies threatened his right to a speedy and fair hearing.

The legal team emphasized that extraordinary measures were necessary to ensure that justice was served.

With the case now reassigned, Kanu’s defense team will focus on preparing for trial.

Ejimakor stated that they are committed to ensuring that the proceedings align with legal standards.

What happens next in Kanu’s trial?

With a new judge assigned, attention will shift to upcoming court proceedings.

Kanu’s legal team will likely push for his immediate release, citing previous court rulings in his favor.

The Federal Government’s stance on his detention remains a crucial factor in how the trial unfolds.

Legal experts predict that the reassignment could lead to renewed discussions on Kanu’s bail application.

Many of Kanu’s supporters continue to demand his unconditional release, arguing that his detention is politically motivated.

The coming weeks will be critical in determining the direction of Kanu’s legal battle and his fight for freedom.

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