The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a strong warning against further delays in the high-profile trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), stressing that the case—now ongoing for nearly a decade—must proceed without hindrance.
Presiding Judge, Justice James Omotosho, who took over the case after four previous judges—including Justice Binta Nyako—recused themselves, scheduled six hearing dates for the Federal Government to conclude its terrorism and treason-related charges against Kanu. The court set May 28 and 29, and June 6, 16, 18, and 19 for the prosecution to close its case.
Cross-Examination Continues Amid Heightened Security
At Thursday’s resumed hearing, the defence team—led by former Attorney-General and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Kanu Agabi—completed the cross-examination of the prosecution’s second witness, a Department of State Services (DSS) operative, whose identity remains concealed for security reasons and was referred to as “BBB.”
During re-examination, the witness claimed that the Eastern Security Network (ESN), allegedly founded by Kanu as IPOB’s armed wing, operates illegally without legislative backing. In contrast, he said the Southwest security outfit, Amotekun, is recognized under state laws passed by the region’s Houses of Assembly.
Defence Counters EndSARS Allegations with New Evidence
Kanu’s legal team presented fresh evidence to counter claims linking him to violence during the EndSARS protests in Lagos. The team tendered a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Lagos EndSARS Judicial Panel report, which was accepted into evidence as Exhibit PWUO.
Additional exhibits included a flash drive and a certificate of compliance, admitted as Exhibits PWI and PWP, respectively. The defence also played a video compilation of public statements by top Nigerian officials, including DSS Director-General Adeola Ajayi, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and former Defence Minister Gen. T.Y. Danjuma, all of whom encouraged local community defence efforts amid insecurity.
Justice Omotosho Orders Fast-Tracking of Trial
Citing Kanu’s prolonged detention, Justice Omotosho emphasized the need for an expedited trial. Kanu, first arrested on October 14, 2015, was released on bail in April 2017 but fled the country following a military raid on his Abia State home.
He was rearrested in Kenya and extradited to Nigeria in June 2021, and has since remained in DSS custody. Although the Court of Appeal initially ordered his release in October 2022, the Supreme Court reversed that decision in December 2023, allowing the Federal Government to proceed with a seven-count charge against him.
Trial Nears Critical Stage as FG Prepares to Conclude Case
The upcoming trial dates mark a decisive phase in a case that has gripped national and international attention. Justice Omotosho made it clear that no further delays will be tolerated, reiterating the court’s commitment to delivering justice without prejudice or unnecessary postponements.
