Drama Unfolds as Justice Binta Nyako Withdraws From Kanu’s Case

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has opted out of the treason trial involving Nnamdi Kanu, the purported leader of the separatist group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Justice Nyako announced her decision to recuse herself on Tuesday, subsequent to Kanu’s demand that she disqualify herself from his trial.

On Tuesday, Kanu’s lawyer, Alloy Ejimakor, sought a postponement of the trial’s commencement, arguing that his client had been denied sufficient time to prepare his defense.

Just as Ejimakor was nearing the end of his submission, Kanu stood up in the dock and told his lawyer to sit down.

Kanu firmly said, ‘Take your seat,’ and continued, ‘My lord, I no longer have faith in this court’s impartiality, as it has disregarded the Supreme Court’s decision; therefore, I request your honorable recusal.’

It’s comprehensible if the DSS declines to comply with a court order, but for this court to disregard a Supreme Court directive is truly unfortunate.

Prosecution lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) urged the court to proceed with the trial but the judge decided otherwise.

Justice Binta declared: “I am recusing myself from this matter and remanding the case file to the Chief Judge.”