Court Adjourns Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial to October 27 as IPOB Leader Prepares to Defend Himself
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to October 27, 2025, to enable him to begin his defence. The development followed the defendant’s decision to personally conduct his case after dismissing his legal team, led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN).
Akahi News gathered that during Thursday’s session, Kanu unexpectedly informed the court that he no longer wished to retain his legal counsel, prompting the team’s formal withdrawal from representation. Consequently, the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, fixed October 24 for the commencement of the defence.
However, when the matter resumed on Friday, Kanu told the court that he could not proceed with the case as planned because he had not yet received his case file, which he said was still being withheld by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS).
DSS Accused of Denying Access to Case File
According to details obtained by Akahi News, Kanu explained that individuals who attempted to deliver his case documents were denied access by DSS operatives at the detention facility. He pleaded with the court for additional time to properly review the materials and prepare his defence before appearing on Monday.
The IPOB leader also requested daily visitation rights, instead of the current arrangement of Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, to enable him to meet his legal team and prepare adequately for trial. Furthermore, he asked the court to permit foreign witnesses access to the DSS facility, noting that some of the 23 witnesses he intends to call will be arriving from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Ethiopia.
Court Grants Adjournment, Orders DSS Cooperation
Akahi News learnt that government counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), did not oppose the application for adjournment but reminded the court that Kanu had been granted only six days to open and close his defence in accordance with a prior order.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho granted Kanu’s request and adjourned proceedings to October 27, directing the DSS to ensure that the defendant has full access to his legal team over the weekend. The judge emphasised the importance of fair hearing and urged Kanu to make the best use of the opportunity, noting that the court had given the case significant priority at the expense of other pending matters.
Justice Omotosho also made it clear that he would no longer vacate the courtroom for pre-trial conferences between Kanu and his lawyers, stating that such privileges had not been effectively utilised in previous sittings. Instead, he ordered that all future legal meetings should be held within the DSS facility, where a conducive environment must be provided for confidential discussions.
Long-Running Legal Battle
Akahi News recalls that Nnamdi Kanu was first arrested in 2015 and granted bail in 2017, after which he fled Nigeria. He was re-arrested in 2021 and has since remained in the custody of the DSS. The federal government accuses him of inciting violence, terrorism-related activities, and spearheading secessionist campaigns through IPOB operations in the South-East.
The prosecution has maintained that Kanu used his online broadcasts and directives to incite attacks against security operatives and government institutions. The case has drawn international attention, with human rights advocates urging for fair trial standards and respect for due process.
High-Profile Witnesses Listed for Defence
In a recent filing sighted by Akahi News, Kanu disclosed plans to call both “ordinary but material” and “vital and compellable” witnesses under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011. Among the prominent figures listed as witnesses are:
- Former Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Danjuma (Rtd.)
- Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (Rtd.)
- Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu
- Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma
- Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike
- Minister of Works, Dave Umahi
- Former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu
- Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN)
- Former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai
- Former and current Directors-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Bichi and Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi.
Akahi News gathered that Kanu’s legal strategy may hinge on compelling testimony from these key figures, particularly regarding the circumstances surrounding his re-arrest, extradition, and the legality of IPOB’s proscription.
Tensions and Broader Implications
Observers who spoke to Akahi News noted that Kanu’s decision to represent himself could significantly shape the tone and trajectory of the trial. Some legal analysts described it as “a bold but risky move,” considering the complex nature of the charges. Others believe it demonstrates his deep distrust of the Nigerian judicial system and his determination to personally articulate his defence.
The case continues to stir political and social debate, particularly among South-Eastern communities and diaspora groups who view Kanu’s trial as a litmus test for Nigeria’s unity, justice, and human rights record.
As the court reconvenes on October 27, all eyes will be on Abuja to see how proceedings unfold and whether the long-drawn trial of the IPOB leader will finally move toward resolution.
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