Nnamdi Kanu drags Justice Nyako before NJC, alleges judicial bias

The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a petition against Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, before the National Judicial Council, accusing her of judicial misconduct in handling his trial.

The petition, dated 13 January 2024, was addressed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, who also serves as the Chairman of the NJC.

Kanu alleged that Justice Nyako’s actions during his trial had caused him “incalculable and continuing damage,” including the deprivation of his liberty.

Justice Nyako is presiding over the seven-count terrorism charges brought against Kanu by the Federal Government.

The petition, supported by an affidavit sworn to by Kanu’s brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, detailed allegations of misconduct, including the judge’s refusal to reinstate Kanu’s bail, which he argued was a violation of the Constitution.

In the petition, Kanu stated, “Justice Binta Murtala-Nyako currently presides over Court 2 of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division.

Her conduct amounts to judicial fraud and non-adherence to the Constitution and established rules of law.

“Her refusal to reinstate my bail despite the Supreme Court’s determination constitutes disobedience to Section 287(1) of the Constitution, which mandates all authorities and courts to enforce decisions of the Supreme Court.”

Kanu further accused the judge of disregarding constitutional provisions and the rule of law, describing her conduct as a violation of his fundamental rights.

The petition read in part, “Wherefore, the complainant prays the Council to discipline Her Lordship, Honourable Justice Binta Murtala-Nyako in accordance with the pertinent rules for disciplining erring judicial officers.”