Justice Nyako Steps Aside as Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB Challenge Her Over Case

Abuja, Nigeria.

In a dramatic turn of events, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has recused herself from the ongoing trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This decision came after Kanu himself openly challenged the judge in court, accusing her of disobeying a Supreme Court order.

At today’s session, tensions rose when Kanu instructed his lawyer, Alloy Ejimakor, to halt his defense, taking control of the court proceedings himself. Citing the Supreme Court's ruling, Kanu accused Justice Nyako of bias and failing to respect the highest court’s decisions.

"Sit down! I say you should sit down!" Kanu commanded his lawyer from the dock, before addressing the judge directly. "My lord, I have no confidence in this court anymore and I ask you to recuse yourself because you did not abide by the decision of the Supreme Court. I can understand it if the DSS refuses to obey a court order, but for this court to refuse to obey an order of the Supreme Court is regrettable."

Despite efforts from the prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adegboyega Awomolo, urging the court to proceed with the trial, Justice Nyako chose to step aside. "I hereby recuse myself and remit the case-file back to the Chief Judge," she declared.

This development follows ongoing tensions surrounding Kanu's case, as IPOB and its supporters continue to call for his unconditional release, accusing the Nigerian government of ethnic persecution and violating court rulings in his favor.

This recusal marks a significant moment in the legal battles faced by the IPOB leader, and all eyes are now on the Nigerian judiciary and what steps will follow next in this high-profile case.

The Biafra Sun will continue to provide updates as the case unfolds.