An Abuja-based lawyer, Christopher Chidera has said that proceedings at the last Friday re-arraignment of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was a new chapter of justice in the history of Nigeria’s judiciary.

The lawyer who expressed happiness with the way and manner proceedings were conducted without tension, bias, hostility and confrontation said that the step signalled the end of bickering between Kanu and the Federal Government that put him on trial on terrorism charges.

Specifically, the lawyer opined that the development marked a pivotal moment of reconciliation and renewal in the pursuit of justice.

In a statement released on Saturday, Chidera expressed happiness with Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, before whom Kanu was arraigned without tension.

The Abuja lawyer also noted with satisfaction, the wisdom of the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi in initiating the new move and Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, for not objecting.

Kanu Agabi, SAN, stood for Nnamdi Kanu at the Friday re-arraignment while Adegboyega Awomolo represented the Federal Government to prosecute the defendant for the alleged offence.

However, contrary to the expected hostilities, Agabi, the lead counsel to Kanu, acting on behalf of his client, took time to apologize profusely to the Federal High Court, the judiciary, Justice Binta Nyako, the Federal Government lawyers and his own lawyers for the anger and outburst he exhibited during the last year’s proceedings.

Kanu in a dramatic turn of events, asked for forgiveness and demanded that peace and not violence should be employed in any reconciliation process.

Reacting to the development, Chidera said, “The recent proceedings in the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), before Justice James Omotosho have marked a pivotal moment of reconciliation and renewal in the pursuit of justice.

“Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, tendered an apology on behalf of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu for events that transpired in Justice Binta Nyako’s court, an act reflecting deep respect for the judiciary’s sanctity and its discretionary authority.

“This gesture was not merely procedural but a profound acknowledgment of the need to wipe the slate clean, ensuring that Justice Omotosho’s court could proceed unencumbered by prior tensions or biases.

“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, a gentleman raised in the royal household of a traditional ruler, understands the weight of deference to authority, having observed his father, His Royal Majesty (HRM) Eze I.O Kanu of blessed memory, adjudicate disputes with unchallenged dignity—a value he sought to uphold in this process by allowing Chief Agabi to proceed unhindered.

“In a reciprocal display of magnanimity, Justice Omotosho, during his summation, emphasized the judiciary’s sacred role, stating, “A court of law is the temple of justice with a judge at the head and lawyers as ministers.

“The work that goes on in a court of law is the work of God, because God is a God of justice.

“Guided by principles of justice, faith, and mercy, His Lordship Justice James Omotosho also extended an apology to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, recognizing the need to restore trust and equilibrium.

“This mutual exchange underscores a shared commitment to refocus the proceedings on the substantive issues before the court, free from the shadow of past confrontations.

“The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and judicial officers alike can now look to this fresh start as a testament to the resilience of Nigeria’s judiciary, bolstered by Chief Agabi’s wisdom and Justice Omotosho’s gracious leadership, ensuring that justice remains the cornerstone of this case.”

The late Elder Jatau Danladi Bako was laid to rest in a solemn ceremony attended by distinguished leaders, religious figures, traditional rulers, and members of the community who gathered to honor his legacy of selflessness and service. The funeral, which took place in Jaba Local Government Area, Kaduna State, was a testament to the profound impact he had on his family, his faith, and his people.

Among the prominent figures present was His Royal Highness, the Kpop Ham, Mr. Danladi Gyet Maude, represented by the District Head of Daddu, His Royal Highness Bello Shamaki. Also in attendance were Hon. Amos Gwamma Magaji, Member of the House of Representatives representing Jaba/Zangon Kataf Federal Constituency, and Hon. Henry Mara, Member of the Kaduna State House of Assembly representing Jaba LGA. Other dignitaries included the Chairperson of Jaba LGA, Hon. Sylvia Larai, and the Vice Chairman of Jaba LGA, alongside religious leaders from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), and the Anglican Bishops of Kano and Samban Dioceses.

Elder Jatau Danladi Bako was eulogized for his unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes and community development. His eldest son, Capt. Caleb Danladi, spoke emotionally about his late father’s Christian and humanitarian virtues, emphasizing the deep void his passing has created. “My father was a beacon of hope and love, a man who believed in service to humanity and upheld values that inspired many. His absence leaves a vacuum that cannot be replaced,” he said.

The widow of the deceased, Mrs. Talatu Danladi, shared her heartfelt reflections on the love and selflessness of her late husband. She described him as a devoted family man who always prioritized the needs of others before his own. “He was my rock, my partner, and my greatest support. His kindness knew no bounds, and his generosity touched countless lives,” she said with tearful admiration.

Speaking on behalf of the Kpop Ham, the District Head of Daddu, HRH Bello Shamaki, highlighted the immense contributions of Elder Jatau Danladi Bako to the progress of the community. He recounted the late elder’s role in humanitarian initiatives, conflict resolution, and social development. “His legacy will forever be remembered in the annals of our history. He was a man who worked tirelessly for peace, unity, and progress,” he noted.

In his sermon, Rev. Stephen Forest described the late elder as a role model worthy of emulation. “His life was a reflection of Christian virtues—love, humility, and service. He was not just a leader in his home but in the community and the church. His deeds will continue to inspire generations to come,” the preacher declared.

Several dignitaries were also in attendance, including Rear Admiral Luka, General Saleh Magaji, Rev. J. D. Ishaku, Ben Kureh, Barrister (Dr.) Deborah Usman, and Amina Sani Bello, Senior Special Assistant to the Kaduna State Governor. Others included Captain of Industries, traditional rulers, close friends, and extended family members. The presence of the wife of the Kpop Ham further underscored the significance of Elder Jatau Danladi Bako’s contributions to the community.

As the funeral drew to a close, it was evident that the late elder had left an indelible mark on the lives of many. He was remembered not only as a loving father and husband but also as a man who dedicated his life to making his community a better place. His passing is a great loss, but his legacy of faith, service, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.