A judge trying the case involving detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nanmdi Kanu, has withdrawn from the continuing with the hearing of the suit after being accused by Kanu of being biased.
Justice John Tsoho of the Federal High Court, Abuja announced his withdrawal today, Monday, saying that the case file has been returned to the Chief Justice of the Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Auta, for reassignment.
Kanu’s lawyer, Chuks Mouma, had accused the court of acting in line with the suggestion of President Muhammadu Buhari that the incarcerated IPOB leader will not be released under any circumstance.
According to Mouma, the court should hands off the proceedings in line with a petition written to the National Judicial Council protesting the handling of the trial.
“We are only asking the court to hands off. My client has lost confidence in this court.
“I understand that there is a letter to NJC, though I haven’t seen it, and the CJ has replied saying that the matter will be investigated. I would urge you that you transfer the matter.
“I would suggest that it be sent back to the CJ.”
Justice Tsoho said: “I have no interest in trying your matter and I will return it to the CJ, but I will condemn the attitude of that counsel. I do not care if you take your case to another planet.
“This case is hereby transferred to the CJ.” [myad]
