On Wednesday, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, revealed that he was ready to negotiate his case with the Federal Government, News About Nigeria reports.
Kanu expressed his readiness through his legal team, led by Alloy Ejimakor, at the resumed proceeding on the seven-count terrorism and treasonable felony charge that the FG entered against him before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.
According to Ejimakor, Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act makes provision for amicable resolution of such matters.
“Section 17 of the Federal High Court Rules states that in any proceeding, the court may consider reconciliation and settlement,” Ejimakor stated.
Responding to Kanu’s legal team, the FG’s lawyer, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, said he had earlier informed the defendant that he lacked the powers to embark on such negotiations since it was not part of the jurisdiction that was issued to him by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.
He further noted that only the AGF has the authority to negotiate or take further steps concerning the matter.
This, according to him, is because the case borders on alleged terrorism.
He said, “If he is interested in negotiating, he knows the right place, the Attorney General of the Federation office.”
After listening to the parties involved, the trial justice, Binta Nyako, said the duty of the court was to hear the matter that was brought before it and not act as a solicitor for any of the parties.
He further noted that the responsibility for deciding which way to go on the matter is largely dependent on the parties involved.
“If you want to discuss with the AGF, no problem at all,” Justice Nyako added.
