Court Backs Deal Between Nnamdi Kanu, FG, Issues New Directive

The Abuja Federal High Court on Wednesday gave its backing to a potential deal between the federal government and Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The court instructed Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and Kanu to pursue a political solution and reconciliation in the ongoing terrorism trial.

Justice Binta Nyako issued this directive by invoking the court’s authority under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act. This section allows the court to “promote reconciliation among the parties thereto and encourage and facilitate the amicable settlement thereof.”

In response, prosecutor Ademoyega Awomolo, SAN, indicated he had no objections to resolving the case through political means. He suggested that the court should direct Kanu’s lawyers to communicate directly with the Attorney-General.

Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, also did not oppose the idea of a political settlement. Following these statements, Justice Nyako adjourned the case to September 24 for further hearing.

Kanu has been detained since June 2021, when he was arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria. Various organizations, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, have called on President Bola Tinubu to consider a political resolution to Kanu’s continued detention.