JUST-IN: Federal Government Closes Case Against Nnamdi Kanu.
The trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has reached a pivotal moment, igniting renewed optimism among his supporters as the Federal Government announced the closure of its case on Thursday, 19 June 2025. The development, which has fuelled widespread public debate, underscores the delicate balance between national security and calls for justice, with Kanu’s supporters demanding his release while the government insists the charges are critical to maintaining order.
The trial, held before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja, saw the prosecution, led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, present five witnesses, including a Department of State Services (DSS) operative codenamed EEE, whose testimony concluded the government’s case. The prosecution submitted evidence, including alleged Radio Biafra broadcasts, which they claim incited violence in Nigeria’s South-East region. Kanu’s legal team, represented by Dr Onyechi Ikpeazu, is now preparing a no-case submission, arguing that the evidence is insufficient to sustain the terrorism and treason charges. The court has adjourned the matter until 18 July 2025 for Kanu to open his defence, marking a significant step forward in the high-profile case.
Kanu, who has been detained since his controversial rendition from Kenya in June 2021, has become a symbol of resilience for his supporters, who view him as a prisoner of conscience advocating for self-determination. The trial’s progression has galvanised IPOB members and sympathisers, with posts on X reflecting jubilation over the government’s case closure and hope for a favourable outcome. One user, @DrOzitababy, noted, “The defense plans a no-case submission, arguing insufficient evidence,” capturing the sentiment of confidence in Kanu’s legal prospects. Prominent Igbo socio-cultural organisation Ohanaeze Ndigbo has also called for Kanu’s release, describing his detention as “unjust” and urging President Bola Tinubu to explore alternative dispute resolution.
The case has not been without controversy. IPOB has accused the government of orchestrating a “politically motivated” trial, alleging procedural irregularities, including the use of a statement attributed to a deceased individual. The group’s legal team has challenged the trial’s legality, citing jurisdictional issues and Kanu’s allegedly unlawful extradition from Kenya, which they argue violates international law. Meanwhile, DSS witnesses have linked Kanu’s broadcasts to violence in the South-East, including the deaths of 170–200 security operatives and the murder of former presidential aide Ahmed Gulak, claims IPOB vehemently denies.
Despite the serious allegations, Kanu’s supporters remain steadfast, viewing the trial’s advancement as a step closer to justice. The court’s decision to conduct proceedings at the DSS headquarters last week to inspect a shipping container allegedly used to smuggle a radio transmitter highlighted the case’s complexity, yet it also demonstrated judicial diligence. The National Broadcasting Commission confirmed the transmitter, recovered from a residence in Anambra, was unlicensed, but Kanu’s team maintains his broadcasts were exercises of free speech.
As Nigeria grapples with the broader implications of Kanu’s agitation for Biafran independence, the trial has sparked a national conversation about unity, justice, and the rights of separatist movements. Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s appeal for dialogue reflects a growing desire for reconciliation, with their recent retreat themed “Rebuilding Our Foundation” advocating for peaceful resolutions.
With the trial adjourned until July, Nigerians await the next chapter in this landmark case. For Kanu’s supporters, the closure of the prosecution’s case is a beacon of hope, reinforcing their belief that “justice will prevail,” as stated by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful. As the nation watches, the outcome of Kanu’s trial could shape the future of Nigeria’s approach to separatist movements and the pursuit of national unity.
