Court Gives Nnamdi Kanu Final Deadline to Begin Defence or Forfeit Case

By Diafa Doubra,

The Federal High Court in Abuja has given the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, until November 7, 2025, to open his defence in the ongoing terrorism trial or risk having the case closed.

Justice Binta Nyako, who issued the directive, expressed frustration over repeated delays in the proceedings, warning that the court would not tolerate further excuses from the defence. She emphasized that Kanu, who is representing himself in the matter, has been given ample time to prepare his case.

During Wednesday’s session, Kanu’s legal advisers requested more time to consult with him, citing restrictions on access to their client in detention. The judge, however, reminded them that the trial had dragged on for years and urged them to act within professional limits, especially after some of Kanu’s lawyers made controversial media comments about the case.

The IPOB leader, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since 2021, faces multiple charges including treasonable felony and incitement. The court’s warning marks a crucial point in a trial that has continued to attract both domestic and international attention.