A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has fixed October 10, 2025, to deliver its ruling on a motion filed by Nnamdi Kanu, the embattled leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seeking to permanently halt his ongoing trial on charges bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony. The decision comes amidst growing legal tensions and public interest surrounding one of Nigeria’s most high-profile and politically sensitive court cases.
During Thursday’s session, Justice Binta Nyako adjourned the matter after listening to submissions from both the prosecution, led by the Federal Government, and Kanu’s legal team, who argued that continuing the trial would amount to a violation of Kanu’s fundamental rights. The defense team maintained that the IPOB leader was unlawfully abducted from Kenya in 2021 and brought back to Nigeria through what they termed an “extraordinary rendition,” a move they claim renders the entire legal proceedings against him unconstitutional.
Kanu’s counsel insisted that the Nigerian government had violated both domestic and international laws in his rearrest and therefore lacks the legal standing to continue prosecuting him. They further argued that the charges leveled against their client are politically motivated and have no legal merit, urging the court to dismiss the case in its entirety and order Kanu’s unconditional release.
On its part, the prosecution urged the court to reject the motion, stating that Kanu’s arrest and subsequent arraignment were done within the confines of Nigerian law. The government maintains that the charges against Kanu, which include incitement, terrorism, and attempts to destabilize the country, are serious and must be addressed through proper judicial channels.
Justice Nyako, after hearing the arguments, stated that the court would require time to review the documents and legal submissions before making a pronouncement. She subsequently fixed October 10 for ruling on the application, a date now eagerly anticipated by both supporters and critics of the IPOB leader.
Nnamdi Kanu has remained in detention at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja since his re-arrest. His trial has drawn widespread attention both locally and internationally, with human rights groups, legal scholars, and political observers closely monitoring the developments.
The case continues to stir political and ethnic debates across Nigeria, particularly in the South-East region, where IPOB enjoys a significant support base. As the next court date approaches, tension remains high, with calls from various quarters urging the judiciary to ensure that justice is served in accordance with the rule of law and constitutional rights.
