Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has formally informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of his readiness to commence his defense in the ongoing treason trial.
In a motion personally filed on October 21, 2025, Kanu confirmed his preparedness to comply with the court’s directive to begin his defense by October 24, following an earlier order on October 16. The motion underlines his commitment to actively participate in the trial and present his case in full.
Kanu has proposed to call a total of 23 witnesses, divided into two categories. The first group, known as ordinary but material witnesses, consists of individuals expected to provide testimonies directly relevant to the case. The second group, categorized as vital and compellable witnesses, includes key figures deemed essential to the trial, who may be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.
Among the compellable witnesses listed by Kanu are high-profile Nigerian leaders and officials, including Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory; Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), former Minister of Defence; Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State; Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State; Dave Umahi, Minister of Works; Okezie Ikpeazu, former Governor of Abia State; Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation; Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency; and Yusuf Bichi, former Director-General of the Department of State Services.
In the motion, Kanu requested the court to grant a 90-day period to allow him adequately to present his defense, given the number of witnesses he intends to call. He also stated his intention to testify personally, providing a sworn account of the facts, denying the allegations, and clarifying the political context of his statements and actions. Kanu assured the court that his defense would be conducted efficiently, without unnecessary delays, stressing that justice must not only be done but also be seen to be done.
This development follows a protest in Abuja led by Omoyele Sowore, the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, demanding Kanu’s release. Subsequently, a magistrate court in Abuja ordered the remand of Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others who participated in the protest, charging them with criminal conspiracy and inciting public disturbance. The defendants were remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre, and the case was adjourned to October 24 for arraignment.
Kanu’s readiness to proceed with his defense marks a pivotal moment in the trial, demonstrating his determination to contest the charges and present his side of the story. By formally listing high-profile witnesses, Kanu seeks to ensure his defense is thorough, credible, and transparent, highlighting the importance of a legal process where justice is visibly served.