Court Closes Nnamdi Kanu’s Defence, Sets Judgment for November 20
By Afolabi Nelson
A Federal High Court in Abuja has closed the defence of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), after he failed to open his case within the six days allotted to him. Justice James Omotosho made the ruling on Friday and fixed judgment for November 20 in Kanu’s terrorism trial.
The judge said he would have extended the period for Kanu’s defence if he had begun it at all, noting that the defendant had adequate opportunity to do so. He held that Kanu was not denied fair hearing since he voluntarily refused to take advantage of the chance to defend himself.
Justice Omotosho reviewed the case history, pointing out that Kanu had always been represented by lawyers since he took his plea on March 29. The judge noted that Kanu’s legal team frequently sought adjournments during the prosecution’s presentation and that even after dismissing his lawyers, he continued to have four legal consultants Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Maxwell Opara, and Mandela Umegboru who attended every sitting.
According to the judge, Kanu had been given more than enough opportunity to defend himself but chose not to, effectively waiving his right to a fair hearing. The court will also decide two motions Kanu filed, challenging its jurisdiction, during the final judgment.
Earlier in the session, Kanu told the court he could not proceed because he had not filed a fresh motion. After filing the document in court, he argued that the terrorism charge against him was invalid, claiming it was based on repealed laws the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013 and the Customs and Excise Management Act, Cap C45 LFN 2004. He urged the court to strike out the case and order his release, alleging a conspiracy involving British authorities against him.
Kanu’s motion sought five main reliefs, including setting aside his plea of not guilty, declaring the charge incompetent, and ordering his immediate release. He argued that his plea was obtained under duress and that the trial breached his constitutional rights because the charges were founded on repealed laws.
Responding, prosecution counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) opposed the motion, urging the court to treat it as Kanu’s defence. He noted that Kanu was represented by lawyers who cross-examined witnesses and participated fully in the trial.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the case until November 20, 2025, for judgment.
