The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on terrorism charges has been delayed due to a communication gap between the federal government and the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The trial, initially slated for 10 a.m. today, faced uncertainty as representatives of the federal government were yet to arrive in court. Reports suggest that the presiding judge, Justice Binta Nyako, had fixed the trial for noon, although Kanu’s legal team, led by Aloy Ojimakor, insisted that the trial was scheduled for 10 a.m.
As of the time of this report, the federal government’s legal team, headed by senior advocate Solomon Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), was still expected in court. Sources indicate that Awomolo had been informed that the trial would commence at noon, contrary to Kanu’s lawyer’s claim of a 10 a.m. start.
Meanwhile, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have taken charge of security at the court premises and surrounding roads to prevent any disruption of law and order.
Kanu, already present in the courtroom, was seen exchanging pleasantries with his lawyers and family members. Strict security measures were also in place, with all lawyers and litigants being thoroughly frisked before entering the court to prevent any dangerous materials from being brought inside.