On Wednesday, Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), condemned the violence in the South-East linked to the group’s secessionist agitation. He also requested an out-of-court settlement for his ongoing treason trial by the Federal Government.
Kanu, detained since 2021 after being re-arrested in Kenya and returned to Nigeria, made his appeal during a trial continuation at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
A viral video on Wednesday showed him denouncing the killings in the South-East. Speaking with his lawyers, Kanu emphasized IPOB’s foundation on non-violent principles and condemned all forms of killing, expressing his desire for freedom without death.
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Awomolo responded that only the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) had the authority to seek an out-of-court settlement and suggested Kanu’s team approach the AGF. Justice Nyako advised Kanu to approach the AGF and ordered the DSS to provide an unbugged space for Kanu to meet his lawyers.
Kanu also filed a fresh application seeking dismissal of the charges against him, arguing the prosecution did not specify the location of an alleged offensive broadcast and questioning the court’s jurisdiction. However, the judge dismissed this application, stating the issues had already been resolved and advised Kanu to appeal.
The court ordered the prosecution to file and serve its proof of evidence, with the next hearing set for September 24.
Meanwhile, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo sociopolitical group, supported Kanu’s proposal for an out-of-court settlement. Deputy Vice-President (South-East), Chief Vincent Aham, expressed optimism about Kanu’s release if negotiations commence, highlighting that previous efforts for a political solution had been ignored by the former administration.
He emphasized that Kanu’s release would reduce tension and insecurity in the region. Aham urged President Bola Tinubu to respond to the people’s call and release Kanu.
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