New findings from Premium Times place Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, under scrutiny for his handling of the Nnamdi Kanu treasonable felony trial (2016) and alleged failure to declare multiple bank accounts.
Before becoming Chief Judge, Tsoho presided over the early stages of the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The case involved terrorism and secession charges brought by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Tsoho faced allegations of government influence and bias, reportedly selected to ensure Kanu’s detention despite prior judges ordering his release. He initially rejected secret trials and anonymous witnesses but reversed the ruling on April 5, 2016, allowing closed hearings and masked witnesses.
He also permitted a previously disqualified DSS lawyer to assist the prosecution, blurring the line between detainer and prosecutor. These decisions raised serious questions about judicial impartiality and prompted calls for his recusal, which he eventually accepted.
The Premium Times investigation now alleges that Justice Tsoho failed to declare multiple bank accounts, potentially violating Section 15 of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act. If proven, he could face removal from office, a 10-year ban from public office, and forfeiture of undeclared assets.
The combination of bias in a politically sensitive trial and undeclared assets exposes serious concerns about integrity and accountability in Nigeria’s judiciary.
Nnamdi Kanu remains in custody, serving a life imprisonment sentence at the Sokoto Correctional Centre in Sokoto State.
At stake is not only Justice Tsoho’s position but the credibility of the judicial system in politically and socially sensitive matters.
No formal charges have been filed against Justice Tsoho regarding the asset allegations or his handling of the Kanu trial as of now.
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