Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), revealed his intentions to explore an out-of-court settlement as his terrorism trial begins on Wednesday, June 20, 2024.

Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, informed Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court that he had discussed the matter with the lawyer of the Attorney General of the Federation, Adegboyega Awomolo.

In response, Awomolo mentioned that although Ejimakor had discussed the issue, he had advised him to approach the AGF, who could initiate the idea.

“I have not been instructed or authorised to do so,” said Mr Awomolo,

When the matter was called, Awomolo informed the court that it was scheduled for trial as he was ready to proceed and his witnesses were in court.

Ejimakor then informed the court that he had two applications before the court, one being a Form 49 application seeking the committal of the Director-General of the State Security Service to prison for alleged disobedience to court orders.

He said the second application was challenging the court’s jurisdiction, noting that the SSS had not fully complied with the court’s orders as their visit to Mr Kanu was still being bugged.

Narrating his visit to Kanu at the DSS, Ejimakor noted that during his last visit on Monday, the security agency treated them better and that his colleagues were granted access to the facility.

The lawyer insisted that the service had not obeyed the order directing them to give Kanu a “safe room” to meet with his lawyers, claiming the room given to them was bugged.

He urged the court to invoke section 17 of the Federal High Court Act, which provides for “reconciliation” and facilitation of amicable settlements in criminal or civil matters.

The trial judge observed that the court had no problem with exploring an out-of-court settlement if the parties decided to do so. She urged Kanu to approach the AGF, who is the proper person to negotiate with.

The judge held that the Form 49 application filed by Kanu was not before her and that it would be addressed when it is brought before her.

She also ordered the SSS to provide an unbugged space for Kanu and his lawyers anytime they meet to prepare for defense which could be within the premises of the SSS.