The Supreme Court has ruled against Nnamdi Kanu’s appeal, upholding the Federal Government’s stance that Kanu must face trial at the Federal High Court.
The Court’s decision comes after the Appeal Court previously dismissed charges against Kanu.
Delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, prepared by Justice Garba Lawal, the judgement contested the Appeal Court’s ruling, stating that Kanu’s trial couldn’t be invalidated solely based on government illegality post the invasion of his home.
While acknowledging the Nigerian Government’s alleged unlawful actions in rendering Kanu from Kenya, the Supreme Court affirmed that such actions didn’t strip the courts of their authority to proceed with the trial.
Justice Lawal emphasized the absence of cited Nigerian law supporting Kanu’s release due to the alleged abduction from Kenya. The Court suggested that Kanu could pursue a civil case against the act rather than obstructing the trial for criminal charges.
Kanu’s absence during the judgement adds to the ongoing drama surrounding the case, which has endured for years. Amid heightened security measures during Friday’s verdict, there were calls from various quarters, including Ohanaeze, for Kanu’s release.
The leader of the proscribed secessionist group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in detention since his re-arrest in June 2021 and subsequent return to Nigeria from Kenya. His legal team has vehemently accused the Federal Government of abducting him and challenged the alleged extraordinary rendition in court.
Originally facing four charges, Kanu now contends with 15 charges related to terrorism and membership of a proscribed group. Despite eight charges being dismissed by Justice Binta Nyako of the trial court, seven charges remain, signaling that Kanu still has legal battles ahead.
The legal tussle gained momentum when the Court of Appeal dismissed the remaining charges and ordered Kanu’s release, only to grant a stay of execution following the Federal Government’s intent to appeal to the Supreme Court, leading to the recent decision.
