The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has, for the fourth time, granted the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, an opportunity to open his defence against the terrorism charges levelled against him by the Federal Government.
Justice James Omotosho fixed the new date of November 7, 2025, for the embattled IPOB leader to either present his case or formally waive his right to do so. This development follows the prosecution’s closure of its case in June 2025 after calling a total of five witnesses to testify.
Throughout the proceedings, Kanu has maintained a firm stance, challenging the validity of the charges. He argued vehemently that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, under which he is being tried, has been repealed. He insisted that continuing the trial without amending the charges is a violation of a Supreme Court directive, rendering the case against him legally weightless.
“I will not open any defence because the charge is incompetent,” Kanu told the court, spending a significant portion of the hearing explaining his position. He stated he would only proceed after extensive consultation with his legal team, led by Nnaemeka Ejiofor and including Aloy Ejimakor and Maxwell Okpara.
While the prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the court to enforce its orders for Kanu to respond, Justice Omotosho emphasized fairness, granting the adjournment to allow for proper legal consultation. The judge, however, reminded Kanu of the court’s earlier ruling that a prima facie case exists against him, urging him to cooperate with his counsel. All eyes are now on November 7 for the next chapter in this protracted legal battle.
