Nigerian Court to Decide on Nnamdi Kanu’s Transfer Request, Threatens Indefinite Adjournment of Trial

Justice Binta Nyako has set May 20 as the date to deliver a verdict on a significant application by Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Kanu’s legal team has requested his transfer from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to Kuje prison to better prepare for his trial.

During the proceedings, Kanu’s attorney, Alloy Ejimakor, argued that his client’s right to a fair trial was compromised under current detention conditions. Ejimakor highlighted the challenges Kanu faces in preparing for his defense, notably the alleged presence of hidden cameras in consultation rooms which, according to him, impairs confidential communication between Kanu and his lawyers.

Ejimakor also mentioned precedents where other high-profile detainees, like Sambo Dasuki and El-Zakzaky, were held under house arrest, suggesting that similar accommodations might be appropriate for Kanu. The defense’s request included options for house arrest or transfer to another law enforcement agency’s custody.

Opposing the application, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awolomo (SAN), argued that the defense had not provided sufficient reasons for granting the transfer. Justice Nyako, expressing frustration over delays attributed to the defense, threatened to adjourn the trial indefinitely if such issues continued.

After hearing the arguments, Justice Nyako adjourned the session, allowing a brief recess for Kanu to meet with his defense team.