- Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will begin his defence on October 24, 2025, after confirming his readiness before Justice James Omotosho.
- He plans to call 23 witnesses, including top officials like Danjuma, Buratai, Wike, Umahi, and several governors.
- Kanu personally signed the motion, suggesting a possible split from his legal team led by Kanu Agabi (SAN).
- His counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others were remanded in Kuje Prison after a protest demanding Kanu’s release.
In a bold move that has reignited political and legal debates, the detained leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has formally agreed to open his defence in the terrorism-related charges filed against him by the Federal Government.
Kanu, who has been in detention since 2021, filed a fresh motion before the Federal High Court in Abuja indicating his decision to begin his defence on October 24, 2025. The motion, personally signed by Kanu, also disclosed that he would testify in court to counter the allegations brought against him.
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Among the 23 witnesses listed are some of Nigeria’s most prominent figures, including retired generals and sitting ministers. Those expected to testify include Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, Gen. Tukur Buratai, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor Hope Uzodinma, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Works Minister Dave Umahi, former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, ex-Justice Minister Abubakar Malami (SAN), and SSS Director-General Yusuf Bichi.
Kanu divided his witnesses into two categories, ordinary but material witnesses, and those he called “vital and compellable,” who he plans to summon under Section 232 of the Evidence Act 2011.
The move came hours after activist Omoyele Sowore led street protests in Abuja calling for Kanu’s release. Despite the demonstrations, the court received a medical report confirming that Kanu is fit to stand trial.
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Meanwhile, tension heightened when Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s special counsel, and 12 others were arrested and remanded by a magistrate’s court in Abuja over their role in the protest. The police charged them with criminal conspiracy, incitement, and disobedience of lawful orders. The group was sent to Kuje Correctional Centre pending arraignment on October 24.
Kanu assured the court that he would not delay proceedings and that justice would be done “and be seen to have been done.”
