The long-awaited trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed on Tuesday morning at the Federal High Court in Abuja amid tight security and intense public attention.
Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021, arrived in court accompanied by a formidable legal team of six Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs). Leading the defence team is Chief Kanu Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation, alongside Prof. Onyechi Ikpeazu, Emeka Etiaba, Mela Audu Nunghe, Dr. Joseph Akubo, and Uchenna Njoku.
Court Session Underway
Confirming the resumption of proceedings, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s Special Counsel, told SaharaReporters:
“The court in Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s case has convened. The Judge is on seat and appearances for the parties are being announced.
The Federal Government has 3 SANs; Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has 6 SANs. The die is cast, and we’re primed and ready to rumble.”
The Nigerian government, represented by three SANs, reaffirmed its commitment to continue prosecuting Kanu on charges of treason, terrorism, incitement, and illegal possession of firearms.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Earlier, the government re-arraigned Kanu on an amended seven-count charge bordering on terrorism before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Kanu, who has remained in DSS detention since 2021, pleaded not guilty to all charges.
His arrest and detention have triggered widespread protests, particularly across Nigeria’s southeastern region, where Kanu enjoys massive grassroots support.
National and International Attention
This latest court session adds another chapter to a legal saga that has drawn both national and international scrutiny. Numerous human rights organizations and international observers have consistently called for transparency, due process, and a fair trial.
Kanu’s ongoing trial is widely seen as a critical test of the Nigerian judiciary’s independence and the Federal Government’s approach to managing secessionist movements in the country.
As proceedings unfold in Abuja, all eyes remain on the Federal High Court. Will justice be served, or will political interests overshadow Nigeria’s most closely watched legal battle?
📌 Stay connected with Alayo Radio TV for real-time updates on political developments, human rights issues, and high-profile trials in Nigeria.