Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has expressed his intention to engage in negotiations with the Federal Government regarding his ongoing trial. Through his lead counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, Kanu stated at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday that he would seek negotiations in accordance with Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act.
Section 17 of the Act empowers the court to promote reconciliation and facilitate amicable settlements among the parties involved in legal proceedings.
During the court session, Ejimakor presented two applications: one to move form 49 and another challenging the court’s jurisdiction. He emphasized that if these applications were rejected, Kanu would pursue negotiations as stipulated in Section 17.
In response, Adegboyega Awomolo, the counsel representing the Federal Government, informed the court that he did not possess the authority to negotiate on behalf of the government. Awomolo advised Kanu to approach the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who holds the power to negotiate for the government.
Presiding Judge Justice Binta Nyako clarified that the court’s role was not to act as a mediator but to adjudicate cases.
Kanu has been in custody since June 2021, following his arrest in Kenya. He is facing terrorism-related charges brought by the government.
