Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that he intends to seek negotiations with the Federal Government under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act.
Kanu, who has been in custody since his arrest in June 2021 and is facing terrorism-related charges, expressed this intention through his lead counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, during proceedings on Wednesday.
Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act allows the court to promote reconciliation among parties in a proceeding and encourage amicable settlements.
Kanu’s legal team presented two applications before the court: one to move Form 49 and another challenging the jurisdiction of the court.
Ejimakor stated that if these applications are not successful, they will pursue negotiations under Section 17.
In response, the counsel representing the Federal Government, Adegboyega Awomolo, clarified that he does not have the authority to negotiate on behalf of the government, as his mandate does not include such powers.
He advised Kanu to approach the Attorney General of the Federation for negotiations.
Justice Binta Nyako, presiding over the case, emphasised that the court’s role is not to solicit negotiations but to adjudicate cases brought before it.
During his appearance in court, Kanu also addressed recent violence in the South-East, denying any involvement in the killing of soldiers in Abia State.
He condemned the killings and reiterated IPOB’s commitment to non-violence, stating, “IPOB was founded on a non-violent principle, and we maintain that stand.”
