ABUJA — Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has ordered Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to begin his defence in the terrorism charges filed against him by the Federal Government no later than Wednesday, October 27, 2025.
The directive came after Kanu’s legal team informed the court that his former lawyers, led by ex-Attorney General Kanu Agabi (SAN), had not released his case file, stalling preparations for his defence. The judge, acknowledging the delay, granted a final extension and warned that no further adjournments would be entertained.
“The matter was fixed for Kanu to begin his defence as earlier directed,” said Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), counsel for the Federal Government timesng.com.ng Blueprint Newspapers Limited.
The Federal Government had earlier closed its case after presenting five witnesses, including security operatives who cited Kanu’s broadcasts, use of unlicensed transmitters, and sit-at-home orders as evidence afriktimes.com. Kanu’s defence team is expected to file a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution’s evidence is insufficient to warrant a conviction.
Kanu has been in detention since his extradition from Kenya in 2021 and faces multiple charges including terrorism, treasonable felony, and incitement. His trial has drawn international attention and domestic political debate.
The court’s decision to impose a deadline is seen as an effort to expedite proceedings that have been repeatedly delayed due to legal and procedural challenges.
