posted 22nd May 2025
Nnamdi Kanu Trial Adjourned to May and June 2025 as Defence Concludes Cross-Examination
Abuja, Nigeria – The ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been adjourned to 28th and 29th May, and 6th, 16th, 18th, and 19th June 2025, following the conclusion of the defence’s cross-examination of the prosecution’s second witness, identified as Mr BBB. The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, set the new dates to continue the hearing and potentially close the prosecution’s case.
Kanu, who faces seven terrorism-related charges, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his rearrest in Kenya in June 2021. The charges include allegations of inciting violence and encouraging attacks on Nigerian security forces through broadcasts on Radio Biafra. The trial has drawn significant domestic and international attention, with Kanu’s legal team arguing that his calls for self-defence are comparable to statements made by prominent Nigerian figures.
On Thursday, 22nd May 2025, the defence, led by Kanu Agabi (SAN), rested its cross-examination of Mr BBB, a DSS witness. During the session, Kanu’s lawyers presented video evidence featuring retired General T.Y. Danjuma and DSS Director General Adeola Ajayi, who urged citizens to defend themselves against bandits and terrorists. The defence argued that Kanu’s broadcasts were not distinct from such public statements. Additionally, a report from the Lagos State Judicial Panel on End SARS protests was admitted as evidence after the witness confirmed awareness of the protest but not the report’s findings implicating security agencies.
Justice Omotosho reiterated the court’s commitment to an expedited trial, warning the prosecution to conclude its case within the allocated six days. “No matter the number of witnesses the prosecution has, if they do not call all of them and close their case within these six days, I will deem their case closed,” the judge stated. The prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), and the defence agreed on the adjournment dates to ensure thorough preparation.
Earlier in the trial, the court admitted the medical report and death certificate of former presidential aide Ahmed Gulak as evidence, presented by Mr BBB on 14th May 2025. The prosecution linked Gulak’s death to suspected IPOB members, though the defence challenged the credibility of related video evidence and raised concerns about Kanu’s prolonged detention.
The trial has seen multiple adjournments since resuming in April 2025, with the prosecution calling its first witness, Mr AAA, on 29th April. Kanu’s legal team has consistently highlighted procedural issues, including delays in accessing critical documents and the frequent amendment of charges, which they argue hampers a fair trial.
