In a significant development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Attorney General of the Federation and Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, to explore a political solution to the ongoing terrorism trial.
Justice Binta Nyako invoked the court’s powers under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act, which allows for the promotion of reconciliation among parties.
Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act provides that, “In any proceedings in the Court, the Court may promote reconciliation among the parties thereto and encourage and facilitate the amicable settlement thereof.”
Both the prosecutor and Kanu’s legal team agreed to the political settlement of the case, according to Daily Post.
This move comes after various groups, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, urged President Bola Tinubu to consider a political solution to Kanu’s continued detention. Kanu has been in custody since June 2021.
The trial has been adjourned until September 24, pending the outcome of the political negotiations.
This development may potentially lead to a resolution of the long-standing case and Kanu’s release.