Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ameh Ejekwonyilo
Published on 2024-02-26 11:52:37
The Federal High Court in Abuja recently adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), until 19 April. The judge presiding over the case, Binta Nyako, set the date for the commencement of the trial.
During the latest court appearance, the prosecuting lawyer, Adegboyega Awolowo, pledged to bring at least two witnesses on the adjourned date. This marks a significant shift as it is the first time an external prosecutor has led the federal government’s team since the case began in 2015.
The trial of Nnamdi Kanu resumed following a Supreme Court ruling on 15 December 2023. The Supreme Court overturned the Court of Appeal’s decision that had previously acquitted the IPOB leader.
Nnamdi Kanu is facing charges of terrorism before Binta Nyako at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
During the proceedings, Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, argued for a fresh bail application on behalf of his client. Ejimakor cited provisions in the Nigerian constitution that ensure defendants have adequate time and resources to prepare for their defense. He also raised concerns about the interference of the State Security Service (SSS) in confidential conversations between Kanu and his legal team.
Additionally, Ejimakor highlighted Kanu’s declining health and urged the judge to grant bail to the IPOB leader. However, the prosecuting lawyer, Mr. Awolowo, opposed the bail application and the preliminary objection to the trial’s commencement, dismissing them as lacking legal basis.
Mr. Awolowo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was brought in by the new Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to handle the prosecution. Awolowo previously secured the conviction of former federal lawmaker Farouk Lawan in the 2012 fuel subsidy probes bribery case, which was ultimately affirmed by the Supreme Court in January.
The trial of Nnamdi Kanu continues to generate attention and controversy, with legal arguments and procedural developments shaping the course of proceedings. As the case progresses, further details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the complexities and challenges surrounding this high-profile trial.
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