Terrorism Case: Kanu Agrees to Judge’s Counsel to Meet with His Legal Team

The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, on Wednesday agreed to consult with his legal advisers before opening his defence in the terrorism case brought against him by the Federal Government.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja once again advised Kanu to seek proper legal counsel after he repeatedly argued that the seven-count charge against him was invalid.

Although he had earlier declined to proceed with his defence, Kanu eventually informed the court that he would consult with his legal team, naming Nnaemeka Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Maxwell Okpara, and Mandela Umegborogu as his lawyers. The court then adjourned the matter to November 7 — marking the fourth time Kanu has been given the opportunity to either begin his defence or waive the right to do so.

Kanu had in October dismissed his legal team, led by former Attorney General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN), choosing instead to represent himself. Initially, he listed 23 witnesses, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, but later withdrew the list, arguing that the charges against him had no legal basis.

At Wednesday’s proceedings, Kanu maintained that the terrorism charges were invalid, claiming the law under which he was being tried had been repealed and that the prosecution failed to amend the charge as directed by the Supreme Court.

“The Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act has been repealed. I cannot defend myself under a repealed law,” he told the court.

The prosecution had closed its case on June 19, 2025, after presenting five witnesses. The court ruled on September 26 that a prima facie case had been established against Kanu. However, he has twice failed to open his defence since then, citing the unavailability of documents from his former lawyers.

During the hearing, Federal Government’s counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), urged the court to enforce its order for Kanu to either present his defence or waive the right.

Justice Omotosho, however, said the court would once again “bend backward” in the interest of justice to allow Kanu consult lawyers experienced in criminal law.