The long-running legal standoff between the Nigerian Government and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed on April 29, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, drawing renewed attention from across the country and abroad.
We recall that Kanu had earlier filed a suit against the Federal Government and that he has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021.
He arrived in Court under tight security and He was flanked by a high-powered legal team comprising six Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi.
Other members of the defense team include Uchenna Njoku, Prof. Onyechi Ikpeazu, Emeka Etiaba, Mela Audu Nunghe, and Dr. Joseph Akubo. Kanu’s Special Counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed to SaharaReporters that court proceedings had begun, stating, “The court in Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s case has convened. The Judge is on seat & appearances for the parties are being announced.”
The Nigerian government, represented by a team of three SANs, reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing prosecution on the basis of serious allegations ranging from terrorism and incitement to unlawful possession of firearms.
Kanu has already been re-arraigned on a revised seven-count charge centered on terrorism. The case, now presided over by Justice James Omotosho, saw the IPOB leader plead not guilty once again, maintaining his stance since his detention began nearly four years ago.
Also, the Federal High Court in Abuja approved the federal government’s bid to withhold the identities of witnesses due to testify against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Presiding Justice James Omotosho granted the ex parte application brought by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, for the Federal Government.
Awomolo maintained that, given the terrorism-related allegations against Kanu, keeping the witnesses’ identities secret was necessary for their safety.
His arrest and prolonged detention have sparked widespread protests, particularly in Nigeria’s southeast, where IPOB commands considerable public support.
Demonstrations and civil disobedience campaigns have become frequent in the region, intensifying the political pressure surrounding the trial.
Human rights organizations and international observers have repeatedly voiced concerns about the conduct of the trial, urging the Nigerian judiciary to ensure transparency and respect for due process.
Kanu’s trial has become a crucial barometer of the judiciary’s independence in a politically charged environment.
As proceedings continue, the case remains one of Nigeria’s most closely monitored trials, with widespread implications for national unity, legal integrity, and civil liberties.
With emotions running high and both legal teams entrenched, the courtroom has once again become the center stage for a broader battle over justice, politics, and the future of Nigeria’s federation.
