Just in: Nnamdi Kanu Seeks Negotiation with Federal Government Over Trial

Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is seeking negotiations with the Federal Government regarding his ongoing trial. Kanu, through his lead counsel Alloy Ejimakor, expressed his intentions during a session at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday. He aims to pursue this negotiation under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act, which allows for reconciliation and amicable settlement between parties in court proceedings.

Ejimakor had previously submitted two applications to the court: one to move form 49 and another challenging the court’s jurisdiction. He stated that if these applications are denied, Kanu would seek to invoke Section 17 for negotiations.

In response, Adegboyega Awomolo, counsel for the Federal Government, clarified that he lacks the authority to negotiate on behalf of the government. He advised Kanu to approach the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagnei (SAN), who has the requisite authority for such negotiations.

Presiding over the matter, Justice Binta Nyako emphasized that the court’s role is to hear cases, not to act as a mediator.

Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021, following his arrest in Kenya. He faces charges related to terrorism brought against him by the government.