Nnamdi Kanu, the self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who was forcefully returned to Nigeria in unclear circumstances by security services, has had his trial resume at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Kanu is charged for treason among other offences.
When his matter resumed on July 26, the Department of State Services (DSS) who had held him in their custody since his forceful return to Nigeria, failed to produce him in court. This forced presiding Judge Binta Nyako to adjourn the matter.
The real reason for the DSS’s failure to produce him is unclear even though they had cited logistical reasons. His lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, raised concern in the court that the DSS had frustrated his visit to his client in custody, stating that this has hindered his ability to prepare adequately for his defense. In interviews given in the media, Ejiofor had indicated that he would raise objections to the entire trial process.
The Government made elaborate effort to forcefully return Kanu to the country to face prosecution, therefore, it is curious as to why they are delaying his prosecution. In the meantime, observers are eagerly waiting to see what will happen on the next adjourned date, especially the Government’s handling of the process.