Judgement Day: Tension in Abuja as Court Rules on Nnamdi Kanu’s No-Case Submission Today

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will today, Friday, September 26, 2025, know his fate at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Justice James Omotosho is expected to deliver a ruling on the no-case submission filed by Kanu after the Nigerian government closed its terrorism case against him.

If upheld, Kanu will be discharged and walk free after years in detention. If rejected, he will be ordered to open his defence on the charges.

Originally fixed for October 10, Justice Omotosho brought the date forward after concluding his ruling earlier than scheduled. Notices were served on both parties—Kanu through his lawyer, Chief Godwin Kanu Agabi (SAN), and the Federal Government through Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), who prosecuted the case.

Defence Arguments

Agabi argued that the Federal Government failed to prove terrorism allegations against his client. Key points raised include:

• No witness testified to being incited to violence by Kanu.
• DSS operatives only obtained his statements without conducting investigations.
• The charges were amended eight times, yet no evidence linked Kanu to violent acts.
• Kanu’s calls for self-defence were within constitutional rights and echoed by other Nigerians, including General T. Y. Danjuma (rtd).
• His long solitary confinement violated international law, which limits it to 15 days.

Agabi urged the court to rule that no prima facie case was established to warrant Kanu’s defence.

Federal Government’s Position

The prosecution maintained that Kanu’s threats to break up Nigeria and establish a Republic of Biafra were deliberate and not empty words.

Wider Implications

The case has heightened tensions in the South-East. Many believe Kanu’s release would help restore peace and order in the region. Political leaders, including Governor Peter Mbah, have consistently appealed for his freedom.

The ruling today will determine whether Kanu finally secures the long-awaited freedom or continues his legal battle.

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