The terrorism case against Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been reassigned to a new judge by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja, John Tsoho. This decision follows months of intense pressure and a formal request from Kanu for Justice Binta Nyako to recuse herself from the case, citing concerns of bias during a hearing on September 24, 2024.

Kanu's special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed the reassignment in a statement on Saturday, noting that two official letters were received regarding the case. One letter came from the Chief Justice of Nigeria, responding to a previous appeal for administrative intervention to ensure a lawful reassignment after Justice Nyako's recusal. The second letter, from the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, officially announced the reassignment to another judge.

In response to these developments, Nnamdi Kanu expressed his gratitude to the Chief Justice of Nigeria for her prompt attention and “sound administrative discretions.” He also thanked the public for their support in advocating for the reassignment of his case. Kanu reiterated his readiness to stand trial, maintaining his innocence, but emphasized the potential dangers posed by the events of the past six months to his constitutional rights, particularly the right to a fair and speedy hearing.

Ejimakor stated, “To be clear, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has always been ready to stand trial because he is firmly convinced of his innocence.” He added that the legal team would now concentrate on preparing Kanu's defense, ensuring the case proceeds in accordance with the law.

Kanu's legal team had previously petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, leading to the confirmation of the reassignment. The situation arose after Justice Nyako initially recused herself, only for the case file to be returned to her, a move strongly opposed by Kanu’s lawyers. This prompted them to write to the Chief Justice on February 20, seeking her intervention.

Since his extradition from Kenya in 2021, Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention. His trial has raised significant legal and political questions regarding fair trial rights and the Nigerian government’s approach to separatist movements.

Aloy Ejimakor described the letters from the Chief Justice and the Chief Judge as “momentous and somewhat pyrrhic.” He conveyed Kanu’s appreciation to the public for supporting the demand for reassignment, stating, “He also expressed his profound appreciation to members of the general public who publicly expressed their support for our righteous demands that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s case be reassigned to another Judge, as the law demands.”

The case has been adjourned indefinitely since February 10, following Kanu’s insistence that Justice Nyako should not preside over it after her initial recusal. Kanu faces charges bordering on treasonable felony and remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).