Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of his intention to seek negotiations with the Federal Government under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act. Kanu, who has been in DSS custody since his June 2021 arrest in Kenya, faces terrorism-related charges.
Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act allows the court to promote reconciliation and facilitate amicable settlements in any proceeding. Kanu's lead counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, announced this intention in open court on Wednesday after presenting two applications: one to move Form 49 and another challenging the court's jurisdiction. Ejimakor stated that if these applications were denied, they would invoke Section 17 of the Act.
In response, the Federal Government's counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, clarified that he lacks the authority to negotiate on behalf of the government and suggested Kanu approach the Attorney General. Justice Binta Nyako emphasized that the court's role is to hear cases, not act as a solicitor.
During his court appearance, Kanu also addressed recent killings in the South-East, condemning the violence and denying any involvement in the recent murder of soldiers in Abia State. He reiterated IPOB's commitment to non-violence, stating that the organization was founded on peaceful principles and that they seek freedom, not violence. Kanu expressed his condolences to the families affected by the violence and emphasized the importance of focusing on the continent's future.
"We condemn all killings because IPOB stands for non-violence. We are fighting for freedom, not violence," Kanu told journalists in court. "We have endured much suffering in Africa, from slavery to colonization, and now we must focus on becoming what God intended for us to be."
