The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has again appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja this Monday, announcing his decision to forgo calling witnesses in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences.
Kanu, who debriefed his legal team and opted to represent himself seemed calm, confident and in control while he bestrode the courtroom.
“God in Heaven is the God of Justice,” he said firmly before proceedings began, exuding his trademark defiance.
The court had earlier adjourned the case to October 27 for Kanu to open his defence after he indicated plans to summon witnesses.
However, during Monday’s session, he told Justice Omotosho that after reviewing the case file, he found no valid charge against him.
“Since I am convinced there is no valid charge and I have been subjected to an unlawful trial, there is no need for any defence,” he stated.
A Defiant Stand in a Long Battle
The decision came amid rising tension over his continued detention at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility.
Kanu has repeatedly demanded to be moved to a correctional centre, arguing that his rights have been violated.
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu arrival at the High Court Abuja. 27:10:2025.
— Kanunta kanu (@MaziKanuntaKanu) October 27, 2025
A Motion on Jurisdiction is Not Delay:
When a defendant files a motion asking the court to decide its jurisdiction, the law requires the court to hear and rule on it before doing anything else.
Until that happens, the… pic.twitter.com/BGZVaC8IGD
Justice Omotosho, who presided over the matter, advised Kanu to consult criminal law experts before finalising his decision. The court then adjourned the trial to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses.
Earlier in the day, Kanu expressed displeasure at what he described as “misrepresentation” in a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report, accusing the outlet of bias. He maintained that truth and justice would prevail.
The case continues to generate deep national and international interest, being the only major terrorism trial in Nigeria, in a country ravaged by terrorism from multiple non-state actors over the last decade.
Many terrorists have been rehabilitated and designated “repentant“, and in some cases drafted into the security forces.
Kanu has been facing trial since 2017. He left Nigeria briefly on exile alleging the military was after him, but government managed to bring him back in June 2021 under controversial circumstances.
Human rights observers, foreign missions, and pro-Biafra activists have continued to follow his trial proceedings closely, warning that the outcome could have far-reaching political and social implications.
The case is also seen as a test for Nigeria’s judicial system and its handling of politically charged trials, especially those involving persons of Kanu’s South East region which continue to allege prejudice and inequities against it.
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