The Abuja Federal High Court has urged the Nigerian Government and Nnamdi Kanu to seek a political solution to the ongoing terrorism trial. Justice Binta Nyako emphasized reconciliation, invoking Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act, and adjourned the case to September 24 for further hearing.
In a significant development, the Abuja Federal High Court on Wednesday directed the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to explore a political solution and reconciliation in the ongoing terrorism trial.
Justice Binta Nyako issued the directive while invoking the court’s power under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act. This section empowers the court to promote reconciliation among parties and facilitate amicable settlements.
Responding to the court’s directive, the prosecutor, Ademoyega Awomolo, SAN, expressed no objection to a political settlement of the case. Awomolo suggested that Kanu’s lawyers should engage in direct discussions with the Attorney-General.
Kanu’s Lead Counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, also did not object to pursuing a political settlement.
Following these statements, Justice Nyako adjourned the case to September 24 for further hearing.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since June 2021, following his arrest in Kenya and subsequent repatriation to Nigeria. Various organizations, including the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, have called on President Bola Tinubu to consider a political resolution to Kanu’s ongoing detention.
