Written By: Grace Chigbu
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has reassigned the case of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to a new judge following his recent court outburst.
Kanu, through his lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, expressed gratitude to the CJN for the swift response to his request for a case reassignment. He also thanked the general public for their support in demanding a fair trial.
Kanu had earlier sent letters to both the CJN and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, requesting a change of judge. His request followed his repeated objections to being tried by Justice Binta Nyako, whom he accused of bias.
During a court session on February 10, Kanu voiced his frustration, alleging that Justice Nyako had refused to recuse herself from the case despite concerns about fairness. His legal team subsequently took steps to push for a reassignment, arguing that his constitutional rights, including a fair and speedy trial, were at risk.
Ejimakor, speaking on behalf of Kanu, described the CJN’s decision as a positive step toward justice.
“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu instructed the legal team to publicly convey his sincere gratitude to the Chief Justice of Nigeria for her sound administrative discretion and the prompt response to our request,” Ejimakor stated.
He further emphasized that Kanu remains prepared to stand trial, confident in his innocence. However, he noted that the previous six months had posed significant threats to his legal rights.
“With the authorities now taking steps to ensure due process, Kanu and his legal team will focus on preparing a strong defense,” Ejimakor added.
The reassignment of Kanu’s case has sparked discussions across legal and political circles, with supporters hailing the move as a victory for justice. However, critics argue that the ongoing trial remains a politically sensitive issue with broader implications for national security and unity.
Kanu’s trial continues to attract national and international attention, as stakeholders closely monitor how the Nigerian judiciary handles the high-profile case.
www.nigerianeyenewspaper.com_IPOB-leader-Nnamdi-Kanu
