The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Kanu's defence team, led by Kanu Agabi (SAN), argued that the prosecution failed to address ten key issues raised in their no-case submission, urging the court to acquit the defendant.
*Prosecution's Evidence Deemed Insufficient*
Agabi contended that the prosecution did not prove any element of the terrorism charges brought against Kanu. He argued that despite several broadcasts cited by the prosecution, no individual was brought to court to testify that they were incited by Kanu's words. The defence team also questioned the credibility of the evidence tendered, particularly death reports that were not verified by medical professionals under cross-examination.
*Witnesses' Testimonies Criticized*
Agabi criticized the prosecution's witnesses, noting that all came from the Department of State Services (DSS) and repeatedly gave vague responses such as "I don't remember" or "I'm not aware." He cited this lack of clarity 80 times from the record of proceedings, emphasizing that the prosecution's case was built on weak evidence.
*IPOB's Proscribed Status Challenged*
The defence team also challenged the legitimacy of IPOB's proscription, arguing that the process lacked presidential approval. Agabi insisted that IPOB was not lawfully proscribed, and therefore, the charges against Kanu were baseless.
*Prolonged Solitary Confinement*
Furthermore, Agabi claimed that Kanu's prolonged solitary confinement of over six years breached international law and had affected his mental state. This claim highlights the defendant's prolonged detention and raises concerns about the impact on his well-being.
*Prosecution's Counterargument*
In response, prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) maintained that the no-case submission should be rejected. He argued that the prosecution presented five witnesses and various audio-visual materials that established a prima facie case against Kanu. Awomolo claimed that Kanu's broadcasts were inciting and contributed to the death of at least 170 security personnel.
*Case Adjourned for Ruling*
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to October 10 for a ruling on whether Kanu has a case to answer. The court's decision will determine whether the defendant will be required to enter a defence or be acquitted.
*What's Next?*
The outcome of the court's ruling will have significant implications for Kanu's trial and the IPOB leader's fate. As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the court will accept the defence team's arguments or reject the no-case submission.
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