Biafra separatist leader, Nnamdi Kanu, has complied with a directive from the Federal High Court in Abuja to file his defence in the ongoing terrorism case brought against him by the Nigerian government.
Kanu, who leads the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was seen on Thursday submitting his defence documents inside the courtroom, following an order by Justice James Omotosho that the court’s registry be temporarily moved into the courtroom to enable the process.
The development marks a significant turn in the prolonged legal battle, as Kanu had previously refused to open his defence, demanding that the Federal Government clearly identify the section of the terrorism law under which he is being prosecuted.
During Thursday’s session, counsel representing the Federal Government, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), informed the court that he was ready to receive the defence filings from Kanu’s legal team and respond accordingly.
Justice Omotosho temporarily stood down proceedings for an hour to allow the completion of the filing process within the courtroom. The unusual move was taken after Kanu’s repeated complaints about administrative delays in the registry, which had earlier hindered his ability to comply with the court’s directive.
Kanu has faced terrorism-related charges since 2021, following his re-arrest and extradition to Nigeria. His trial has drawn significant public attention, with his supporters maintaining that he is being targeted for his political activism.
The court is expected to resume sitting later on Thursday after the defence documents are formally entered into the record.
