The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has denied the request made by Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seeking the recusal of Justice Binta Nyako from his case.

Justice Tsoho reassigned the case back to Justice Nyako, noting that two other judges had already recused themselves. He explained that due to the long-standing nature of the case, dating back to 2015, and Justice Nyako's extensive involvement, she was considered the most appropriate judge to continue handling it.

However, the Chief Judge instructed that if Kanu insists on her recusal at the next hearing, he must formally submit a motion on Notice, accompanied by an affidavit outlining his reasons. The motion must be served to the prosecution, and Kanu will then appear before Justice Nyako, who will make a final decision on the matter.

Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed this development, stating that the defense team is awaiting official communication and a new hearing date. Earlier, Justice Nyako had briefly recused herself after an oral application by Kanu and his lawyer, who had expressed a loss of confidence in her handling of the case, accusing her of disregarding Supreme Court directive