Detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of his readiness to open his defence, signalling a major turning point in his long-running trial.
In a fresh motion personally signed and filed on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Kanu said he was prepared to begin his defence in compliance with the court’s directive that proceedings should start on October 24.
This comes shortly after a court-appointed team of medical experts declared him medically fit to stand trial.
Kanu Lists 23 Witnesses, Requests 90 Days to Defend Himself
In his filing before Justice James Omotosho, Kanu stated that he plans to call 23 witnesses divided into two categories — “ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable witnesses” to be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act (2011).
He said he would personally testify under oath to refute the allegations against him and clarify what he described as the “political context” of his statements and actions.
Kanu also requested 90 days to conclude his defence, citing the volume of evidence and the number of witnesses involved.
Among those listed as compellable witnesses are high-profile Nigerians including Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, and former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
Others named in the document include former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami (SAN), former NIA Director-General Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, and DSS Director-General Yusuf Magaji Bichi. Several other names were withheld for security reasons.
Kanu assured the court that his team would provide sworn statements from voluntary witnesses and maintain full transparency with the prosecution. “Justice must not only be done but be seen to have been done,” he stated.
Fresh Arrests of IPOB Supporters and Legal Team Members
Meanwhile, a Magistrate Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others who were arrested during a protest calling for the IPOB leader’s release.
Police charged them with criminal conspiracy, disobedience to lawful order, inciting disturbance, and public peace offences — all under Sections 152, 114, and 113 of the Penal Code Law. Among the defendants is Emmanuel Kanu, the separatist leader’s brother.
After briefly adjourning proceedings, the magistrate ordered their remand at Kuje Correctional Centre pending arraignment on October 24, 2025 — the same date Kanu’s defence is scheduled to begin.
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