An Abuja-based lawyer, Christopher Chidera, has described the recent re-arraignment of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s judicial history.
Chidera praised the proceedings, which took place last Friday before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, as a significant step toward reconciliation and justice. He noted that the session was conducted without tension, bias, or hostility—an indication that the prolonged legal battle between Kanu and the Federal Government was taking a new turn.
In a statement released on Saturday, the lawyer commended the professionalism displayed in court, particularly the decorum maintained by both the defense and prosecution teams. He also acknowledged the role of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, in initiating this new approach and praised the prosecution’s lead counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, for not objecting to the process.
At the re-arraignment, Agabi, who represented Kanu, surprised many by offering a heartfelt apology on behalf of his client. He extended this apology to the Federal High Court, the judiciary, Justice Binta Nyako (who previously handled the case), Federal Government lawyers, and Kanu’s own legal team.
In a dramatic turn of events, Kanu himself requested forgiveness, emphasizing the need for peace and urging that reconciliation efforts be pursued without violence.
Reacting to these developments, Chidera stated:
“The recent proceedings in the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu before Justice James Omotosho represent a crucial step toward reconciliation and justice. Chief Kanu Agabi’s decision to tender an apology on behalf of his client reflects deep respect for the judiciary and its authority. This act was not merely procedural but a significant acknowledgment of the need to reset the tone of the trial.”
He further noted that Kanu, having been raised in a royal household, understands the importance of respect and deference to authority. His father, the late His Royal Majesty (HRM) Eze I.O Kanu, was known for his wisdom in resolving disputes with dignity—an approach Kanu seemed to embrace by allowing Agabi to lead the legal proceedings without interference.
Justice Omotosho also underscored the judiciary’s role as a pillar of justice, stating:
“A court of law is the temple of justice, with a judge at the head and lawyers as ministers. The work that goes on in a court of law is the work of God, for God is a God of justice.”
In an unexpected but symbolic move, Justice Omotosho extended an apology to Kanu, reinforcing the importance of restoring trust and fairness in the judicial process.
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Chidera emphasized that this mutual exchange of respect and conciliation signifies a fresh start, allowing the court to focus on substantive legal matters without the distractions of past conflicts. He concluded that the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the judiciary should see this moment as a testament to the resilience of Nigeria’s legal system—one strengthened by Agabi’s wisdom and Justice Omotosho’s balanced leadership.
This development, he noted, reaffirms that justice, guided by fairness and due process, remains the foundation of the Nigerian judiciary.
