Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has expressed intentions to pursue negotiations with the Federal Government of Nigeria, according to statements made by his lawyer, Alloy Ejimakor, during proceedings before Justice Binta Nyako at the Federal High Court.
Ejimakor informed the court that Kanu, under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act, intends to seek negotiations with the federal authorities.
This announcement followed the presentation of two applications by Kanu’s legal team: one involving Form 49 and another challenging the court’s jurisdiction over the case.
In response, counsel representing the federal government, Adegboyega Awomolo, clarified to the court that he lacks the authority to negotiate on behalf of the government. He emphasized that any negotiation must involve the Attorney General of the Federation.
The Form 49 application, also raised during the proceedings, pertains to a contempt charge against the Department of State Services (DSS) for allegedly failing to comply with court orders granting Kanu unrestricted access to his legal representatives. The DSS has reportedly not adhered to these directives.
Additionally, Kanu’s legal team challenged the remaining seven charges retained by the court, following the striking out of eight charges from an initial 15-count charge.
Justice Nyako indicated that she cannot overrule her previous decisions and suggested that Kanu should pursue an appeal.
The developments in court underscore ongoing legal maneuvers and the complex dynamics surrounding Kanu’s case, which has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally.