IPOB Trial: FG agrees 'kidnapping' Nnamdi Kanu from Kenya

IPOB Trial: FG agrees 'kidnapping' Nnamdi Kanu from Kenya

• Appellate court adjourns 'sine die' for judgement

September 14, 2022 | The Biafra Times

ABUJA – Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu Tuesday dragged the federal government of Nigeria to Court of Appeal, owing to the remaining seven-count terrorism-related offences leveled against him.

Recall that, Trial Justice Binta Nyako of Federal High Court had quashed eight (8) out of fifteen (15) amended charges. On the other hand, dismissed the bail application of the accused.

In the proceedings, Justice (Ms.) Jummai Hannatu Sakey of the three-man appellate judges annulled the motion of accelerated hearing, filed by the appellant, noting that same had been overtaken by events since the matter was ripe for hearing.

The appellant's counsels led by Mike Ozekhome, SAN, prayed (that) the said seven-count charge were related and intertwined with the former, dismissed by the lower court; asking that the latter should follow suit. In furtherance of the appeal, in the case of 'extraordinary rendition,' Ozekhome cited Extradition Act Cap E25 LFN 2004; that the trial court lacks jurisdiction to try the accused. 

Presiding Justice Sakey posed a query to the respondent - federal government of Nigeria (FG) - legally represented by Mr David Kasuwe, with respect to extradition of the IPOB leader. The respondent, however, affirmed the rendition processes embedded in the laws of extradition in Nigeria were not put into effect. 

The intermediate court did set aside the bail application of the appellant [Kanu] pending ultimate ruling; however, stated that judgment would be served as soon as possible.

"If the charges are incompetent, then no need for bail as the charges shall be struck out. If the charges are competent, then court shall rule on the bail, granting or denying," the court ruled.

Subsequently, the court adjourned (sine die) with no appointed date, but would communicate with both parties in relation to a new date.

However, November 14 remains the date for substantive trial affixed by the lower court.

Written by Lawson Ozo

Published by Charles Opanwa