The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, is set to appear before a new judge on March 21, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to Newsreporters Online, Kanu’s case has been reassigned to Justice James Omotosho.
Legal Team Ready but Yet to Receive Charges
Speaking on the development, Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed that the legal team is prepared but has yet to receive the specific charges he will face before Justice Omotosho.
Ejimakor stated: “It’s now official that Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu shall appear before a new judge on March 21, 2025. It’s a milestone, and we are primed and ready. The case will start afresh, as though it has never been heard before. Everything from his initial arrest in 2015 up until his last appearance before Justice Binta Nyako is now void, including all pending appeals.”
He also expressed concern over delays in serving the charges, adding:
“We have received a hearing notice, but no charges have been sent to us. The government often serves charges a day before the hearing, leaving little time for legal review. Sometimes, they serve them while in court, even though the documents have been in the court registry.”
Background on the Case
Kanu has been facing legal battles over his push for the actualization of Biafra. In September 2024, he called on Justice Binta Nyako to recuse herself from his trial, citing concerns over impartiality. While she initially withdrew, the Chief Judge of the Abuja Federal High Court overruled her decision.
In December 2024, Justice Nyako indefinitely adjourned the case, prompting Kanu to refuse further court appearances until a new, impartial judge was assigned.
With Justice Omotosho now presiding over the matter, Kanu’s trial is set to begin anew, raising fresh legal and political implications for the case.
