New Judge Steps Down from Nnamdi Kanu’s Case, Cites Illegal Arrest and Moral Conflict

In a surprising and bold move, Justice John Tsoho, the newly appointed judge overseeing the case of Nnamdi Kanu, has stepped down, citing moral and legal conflicts with the proceedings.

Justice Tsoho, who was assigned to the case recently, stated that he could not continue due to the belief that Kanu’s return to Nigeria from Kenya was illegal and that the government’s treatment of the matter violated both Nigerian and international law.

Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested in Kenya in 2021 and extradited to Nigeria under contentious circumstances. Justice Tsoho highlighted this as a key reason for his decision to step down, asserting that the manner in which Kanu was brought back to Nigeria was unlawful.

“I cannot, in good conscience, continue to preside over this case when I know that the process itself began with an illegal act,” Justice Tsoho said in his statement. He pointed out that Kanu’s extradition from Kenya violated international legal norms, and this issue, in his view, fundamentally undermines the case against him.

Justice Tsoho also referenced previous judicial rulings that had called for Kanu’s release, including orders from multiple judges who had directed the government to free him. “Other judges before me have ordered Kanu’s release, but those orders were ignored. If the government didn’t heed those orders, why would they listen to mine?” he questioned.

In his statement, Tsoho further stressed that for Nigeria to maintain its integrity, the nation must adhere to its own laws. “Keeping Kanu locked up without a legitimate reason is not only wrong for Nigeria, but for the global community as well,” he added.

The judge, who has long held a reputation for integrity, made it clear that he could not compromise his own moral beliefs by overseeing a case that he viewed as “transparently flawed.” “I won’t ruin my name by touching this case. It’s clear what’s right, and I won’t let this mess up my reputation,” Justice Tsoho said. “Humanity has a long memory when it comes to justice, and I will not risk staining mine with a matter so transparently flawed.”

This development has further complicated the legal proceedings surrounding Nnamdi Kanu, whose case has been marked by controversy, international attention, and political tension. The Nigerian government has yet to officially comment on Justice Tsoho’s resignation, but legal experts predict this move could have far-reaching implications for the continued handling of Kanu’s case.

Justice Tsoho’s resignation adds to the growing criticism of the government’s treatment of Kanu, as questions about the legality of his detention and the political motivations behind his arrest continue to spark debate. With the case now without a judge, many are watching closely to see how the government will proceed and whether another judge will take over, potentially under similar ethical conflicts.