The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled October 10, 2025, to deliver its ruling on a motion aimed at stopping the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Kanu, represented by his legal team led by former Attorney-General of the Federation Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, is seeking to be discharged and acquitted of the seven-count charge of terrorism and treasonable felony brought against him by the Federal Government.
Kanu’s motion, presented as a no-case submission, contends that the Federal Government has failed to present credible evidence to warrant continuation of the trial. According to his defence, none of the five witnesses called by the prosecution—who were all operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS)—provided testimony directly linking Kanu to any act of incitement or violence, nor did they present investigative reports substantiating the terrorism allegations.
The defence argued that no direct victims were produced to demonstrate incitement by Kanu. The prosecution’s evidence consisted solely of statements obtained from Kanu, without supporting documentation or oral testimony proving a prima facie case. Although the charge was amended multiple times, it still lacked witness accounts establishing any harm linked to Kanu’s actions. The defence maintained that Kanu’s public statements were calls for self-defense, a constitutional right, and not direct calls to violence. They also criticized his prolonged solitary confinement, stating it violated international legal standards. Additionally, they challenged the proscription of IPOB on the grounds that it lacked presidential approval, which they argued is required for such designation.
The Federal Government’s prosecution, led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, rejected the no-case submission and urged the court to order Kanu to open his defence. The prosecution argued that audio and video recordings presented in court contained explicit admissions by Kanu that he is the leader of the proscribed IPOB and that he made broadcasts calling for violence. They linked Kanu’s activities to the deaths of at least 170 security operatives and widespread destruction. The prosecution dismissed claims that the broadcasts were mere boasting, insisting they constituted incitement to criminal acts. They also stated that the validity of IPOB’s proscription, which is before the Supreme Court, should not be challenged at the trial court level.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice James Omotosho announced that a ruling on the motion will be delivered on October 10, 2025. The outcome will decide whether Kanu’s trial continues or is terminated.
