Legal Updates

Nnamdi Kanu Appeals Against Criminal Charges, Alleges Denial of Fair Trial

Kanu, in the notice of appeal, listed the Federal Republic of Nigeria as the sole respondent. He argued that the trial court erred in law when the court assumed jurisdiction to proceed with the hearing of the criminal trial against him when he was glaringly denied the constitutional right to fair trial.

Published

4 weeks ago

April 4, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Nnamdi Kanu Appeals Against Criminal Charges, Alleges Denial of Fair Trial

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has escalated his legal battle against the Nigerian government by filing an appeal at the Appeal Court. This move comes in response to the criminal charges brought against him, which he vehemently rejects.

Represented by his legal team, led by Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu lodged an appeal on March 19, 2024, to challenge Justice Binta Nyako’s ruling of the Federal High Court in Abuja. In the notice of appeal, Kanu asserts that the lower court’s decision denied him his constitutional right to a fair trial.

According to the document submitted to the Appeal Court, Kanu’s legal team contends that the Federal High Court erred in assuming jurisdiction to proceed with the criminal trial against Kanu while denying him essential facilities to prepare his defence and his right to choose his legal counsel.

This denial, they argue, has resulted in a severe miscarriage of justice. The appeal highlights the importance of a fair hearing and trial, stressing that Kanu was not afforded these constitutional safeguards during the proceedings.

Furthermore, the appeal criticizes the Department of State Services (DSS) for failing to provide adequate facilities for Kanu to prepare his defence against the criminal allegations. It alleges that Kanu’s right to counsel of his choice was compromised, further exacerbating the injustice. The legal team emphasizes the need for Kanu to have access to the necessary resources and legal representation to ensure a fair trial process.

The appeal also addresses specific concerns regarding the trial judge’s conduct, Justice Binta Nyako. Kanu’s legal team accuses Justice Nyako of neglecting to protect Kanu’s rights and failing to intervene when it was brought to her attention that Kanu was being denied essential facilities and his choice of legal counsel.

Additionally, they challenge the judge’s order for an accelerated hearing, arguing that such proceedings cannot proceed while Kanu’s rights are being violated.

In summary, Kanu’s appeal seeks redress for the violations of his constitutional rights and calls for a fair trial process. It urges the Appeal Court to rectify the injustices perpetrated during the proceedings at the Federal High Court and ensure that Kanu receives the necessary legal support and resources to defend himself effectively against the criminal charges brought against him by the Nigerian government.

ATTENTION:

Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material and other digital content on this website, in whole or in part, without express and written permission from Legal Attorney Blog is strictly prohibited.

Exciting news! The Legal Attorney Blog is now on WhatsApp Channels. Subscribe today by clicking the link and staying updated with the latest legal news.