Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has filed an appeal challenging a recent ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The ruling, delivered on June 19, 2024, dismissed Kanu’s objection to the court’s jurisdiction over his trial.
In response to Justice Nyako’s decision, Kanu’s lead counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, submitted a notice of appeal to the Court of Appeal in Abuja. The appeal contends that the trial court erred in its interpretation of constitutional provisions and the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act of 2022, which are central to Kanu’s objection.
Ejimakor emphasized the grounds for appeal, stating, “The main issue at hand is the court’s decision to retain certain charges against Kanu. Our appeal asserts seven grounds, primarily based on legal errors and the denial of justice as per the statutes governing this matter.”
The appeal further outlines that the Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, is the sole respondent in the case. Ejimakor affirmed, “The appellant seeks redress for what we believe to be a significant miscarriage of justice, and we look forward to presenting our arguments before the Court of Appeal.”
This move comes amidst ongoing legal maneuvers surrounding Kanu’s prosecution, with his defense team previously advocating for his release and disputing the conditions under which he is held by the Department of State Services (DSS).
The appeal process now initiates a crucial phase in Kanu’s legal battle, as the Court of Appeal in Abuja is expected to review the merits of his objections to the trial court’s jurisdiction. The outcome could potentially impact the trajectory of the case against Kanu, who faces charges related to treasonable felony.
