The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled November 20, 2025, for final judgment in the terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), after he declined to open his defence, Judge James Omotosho announced on Friday.
During proceedings, the court ruled that Kanu, who is accused on seven terrorism-related counts, had “waived his right” to a full defence by failing to call witnesses or testify after six days allotted for his case.
“This court has given opportunity to the defendant under Section 36 as required by the Constitution … it is based on this, without hesitation, that I say that the defendant has waived his right,” said Justice Omotosho.
Kanu’s decision follows his ongoing contention that the charges were brought under a repealed law, making the court’s jurisdiction invalid. The defendant argued the provisions of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act (TPPA) used in his prosecution “no longer exist”.
The Federal Government initiated the case several years ago, accusing Kanu and IPOB of acts intended to destabilise the Nigerian state and incite violence in the country’s southeast region. Kanu has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and maintained that the trial is politically motivated.
Observers say the forthcoming judgment marks a critical juncture in one of Nigeria’s most high-profile legal battles. Supporters of Kanu warn that any verdict could have far-reaching implications for national security, separatist activism and regional tensions.
