Nnamdi Kanu’s trial resumes under new Judge at Federal High Court

The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is set to restart today at the Federal High Court in Abuja under a new judge, Justice James Omotosho.

Kanu, who was extradited from Kenya in 2021, has been facing treason-related charges. However, after three years of legal proceedings, he expressed a lack of confidence in Justice Binta Nyako, prompting a reassignment of the case.

Following this development, Justice Omotosho scheduled fresh proceedings for March 21. Reports indicate that hearing notices have been sent to all parties, and the case file, along with relevant documents, has been transferred to his court.

Barring any last-minute delays, Kanu is expected to be re-arraigned today on the remaining seven charges brought against him by the Federal Government.

In a December 15, 2023 ruling, the Supreme Court ordered Kanu to stand trial on the remaining charges, overturning the earlier decision of the Court of Appeal that had discharged and acquitted him. The apex court acknowledged that Kanu’s extradition from Kenya was illegal but ruled that this did not strip the Federal High Court of its jurisdiction to proceed with the trial.

Since the Supreme Court’s verdict, little progress had been made as Kanu’s legal team repeatedly requested more time and resources to prepare his defence.

On September 24, 2023, Justice Nyako stepped down from the case after Kanu openly demanded her withdrawal. Although the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, initially rejected her withdrawal and ordered her to continue, he later reassigned the case to Justice Omotosho, setting the stage for today’s proceedings.