All eyes are on the Federal High Court in Abuja as it prepares to deliver judgment today in the long running terrorism case against Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra. The decision is expected to mark a defining moment in a legal battle that has lasted nearly a decade, attracted national and international attention, and triggered intense political and legal debate.
Justice James Omotosho will rule on several pending applications, including Kanu’s challenge to the legality of the terrorism charges filed by the Federal Government and his request for immediate release based on claims of unlawful detention and violations of his fundamental rights.
Kanu has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services since June 2021 after his controversial return from Kenya. His legal team has described the incident as extraordinary rendition. He currently faces seven terrorism related charges, including incitement, operating an unlawful organisation and conduct considered a threat to national security. He has repeatedly denied all allegations.
In a recent motion before the court, Kanu argued that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, the law under which he is being prosecuted, had been repealed. He insisted that the charges filed against him were invalid. He urged the court to strike them out, stating that they did not disclose any offence known to law.
He also asked the court to set aside the plea of not guilty entered on his behalf, claiming that it was recorded under deception and in disregard of a Supreme Court ruling. Kanu further requested the court to invalidate all subsequent proceedings and order his release.
Justice Omotosho expressed concern over Kanu’s refusal to open his defence despite being given six days to do so after the prosecution closed its case on June 19, 2025. The judge noted that the court granted several adjournments at the request of the defence to allow for cross examination of witnesses.
He recalled that Kanu’s no case submission had been dismissed earlier, meaning he was required to present his defence. Although Kanu initially agreed to proceed, he later refused, insisting that his trial was unlawful.
According to Omotosho, the defendant’s refusal amounted to a waiver of his right to fair hearing, since the court cannot compel him to defend himself. He stated that he personally appealed to Kanu to engage counsel and take advantage of the opportunities provided during the accelerated hearing.
The case, which was first filed in 2015, suffered several delays, adjournments and legal challenges. It was reassigned to Justice Omotosho earlier this year, where it received fast tracked attention. The prosecution called five witnesses and presented several exhibits before closing its case.
Over the years, the trial has generated widespread public interest, political commentary and human rights concerns. Supporters of Kanu believe that the proceedings amount to political persecution, while the government maintains that the charges relate to serious threats to national unity and security.
As Nigerians await today’s judgment, the outcome will determine whether Nnamdi Kanu regains his freedom or continues to stand trial on terrorism charges. The ruling is expected to have far reaching implications for the IPOB leader, his supporters and the wider national security landscape.
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