Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has indicated his willingness to negotiate with the Federal Government regarding his ongoing trial.
Speaking through his lead counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, Kanu informed the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday that he would pursue negotiation under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act. This section allows the court to promote reconciliation and facilitate the amicable settlement of proceedings.
Ejimakor had earlier presented two applications to the court: one to move Form 49 and another challenging the court’s jurisdiction. He stated that if these applications were denied, Kanu would invoke Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act for negotiation.
In response, Adegboyega Awomolo, counsel for the Federal Government, stated that he had previously informed the defendant that he lacked the authority to negotiate on behalf of the government. Awomolo advised that Kanu should approach the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagnei (SAN), who holds the power to negotiate.
Justice Binta Nyako, the presiding judge, remarked that the court’s role is to adjudicate cases, not act as a mediator.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021, following his arrest in Kenya. He faces terrorism-related charges brought by the government.
