Tsoho’s statement came after counsel to the defendants Chuks Muoma informed the judge of a petition against him before the National Judicial Council (NJC).
The petition sent to NJC by Kanu queried the judge’s conflicting ruling on an application by the DSS to conduct a secret trial for him (Kanu). Also, during the ruling, Kanu who was initially absent was brought into the court dressed in an all white attire by the prison wardens.
The judge said: “Luckily, the procedure would have been to await the response of the NJC.” The judge however said any action by the court would preempt the decision of the judicial council.
He also said the defense team is focused on stampeding the court before the decision of the NJC. “This court is minded not to prolong the issue, especially since they (the defense team) did not state which court it wants the matter to handle its case,” Tsoho said.
He further announced that he will no longer preside over the matter stating that the essence of justice is based on confidence in the court by all parties involved.
“I have disqualified myself from sitting over this case, thereby the case file shall be transferred to the office of the chief justice of the Federal High Court.
“Even if I am cleared of any bias by the NJC, I will not continue with this case,” Justice Tsoho concluded. The federal government through the DSS had accused Kanu treasonable felony, mismanagement of an unlawful society and concealing of goods in a container.
This allegations comes after three different courts had on three occasions squashed all cases – including terrorism – against him and two others, David Nwawuisi and Benjamin Madubugwu.
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