Nnamdi Kanu demands judge’s recusal, as trial adjourned indefinitely
A courtroom drama unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday as Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), insisted that Justice Binta Nyako withdraw from his trial.
Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, called on the judge to recuse herself from the case, but Justice Nyako responded that the Chief Judge had rejected her previous request for recusal and referred the case back to her. She advised Kanu’s legal team to submit a formal written application if they wished to pursue the matter.
Following the exchange, the court adjourned the trial indefinitely.
Reacting after the court session, Kanu accused the court of a poor understanding and interpretation of Nigerian laws as enshrined in the constitution.
He further alleged that the Nigerian government was deliberately biased against him, citing the revocation of his previously granted bail as evidence of targeted persecution.
Kanu, who arrived at the court under the escort of Department of State Services (DSS) operatives, has been in custody since 2021, facing charges of terrorism and treasonable felony linked to his pro-Biafra separatist activities.
This is not the first time Kanu has challenged the judge’s role in his trial, as a similar application led to a temporary halt in proceedings in September 2024.
