Leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, told the Federal High Court in Abuja that his witnesses would be coming from different parts of the world, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and the United States, to testify in his ongoing trial.
During Friday’s proceedings before Justice James Omotosho, Kanu—who has chosen to represent himself—said he had filed a motion listing 23 witnesses, made up of “ordinary but material” and “vital and compellable” individuals. He also requested a 90-day window to conclude his defence, considering the number of witnesses expected to appear.
Kanu’s application, revealed that he personally signed the motion and intends to summon some of the witnesses under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011. The IPOB leader recently dismissed his legal team led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), insisting on conducting his own defence.
When the case was called, Kanu appeared in the dock and announced his self-representation, saying, “I am Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. I stand for myself.” The prosecution, represented by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), confirmed readiness to proceed, but Kanu asked for an adjournment, explaining that his former lawyers had yet to hand over his case file.
He also appealed to the court for extended visitation rights, stating that his current access—limited to two hours on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at the DSS facility—was insufficient to prepare with witnesses coming from various countries. Justice Omotosho granted the request, allowing his legal representatives to visit him on Saturdays and Mondays for the purpose of trial preparation.
The judge expressed surprise over Kanu’s claim that his former lawyers had withheld his file but, in the interest of fair hearing, approved an adjournment to allow him adequate time to prepare. He reminded all parties that the court had earlier granted an accelerated hearing to avoid delays in the high-profile case.
Justice Omotosho also cautioned Kanu to use the court’s leniency wisely, emphasizing that continued postponements could disrupt other ongoing trials. He stated, “This court is here to do justice to everyone. Let us make use of this opportunity.”
The case was adjourned to October 27 for Kanu to open his defence. According to Zoyols Blog, the proceedings are expected to determine the next direction of one of Nigeria’s most closely watched trials.
