The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed today, Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja under tight restrictions.
Justice James K. Omotosho, who is handling the case, approved only ten people from Kanu’s side to be present in the courtroom. This list includes eight top lawyers and two close associates.
Among the lawyers allowed are several Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) like Kanu G. Agabi, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, Paul Erokoro, Emeka Etiaba, Mela Audu Nunghe, Dr. Joseph Akubo, Uchenna Njoku, and Aloy Ejimakor.
Others cleared to attend are Hon. Obi Aguocha, a federal lawmaker representing Kanu’s constituency, and Prince Emmanuel Kanu, the IPOB leader’s younger brother.
The court session started at 9:00 a.m. and follows the last hearing where the Federal Government closed its case. The defense team has been asked to file a written address within 14 days, arguing that Kanu has no case to answer.
Kanu, who has been in detention since June 2021 after his arrest and extradition, faces charges bordering on treason and terrorism linked to his activities as leader of IPOB—a group seeking independence for the South-East region of Nigeria.
His trial continues amid calls from various groups for his release and a political solution to the Biafra agitation.
