The trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, resumed today at the Federal High Court in Abuja with heated exchanges between the prosecution and defense teams over the handling of critical documents.
The proceedings, which began with Kanu’s arrival at the court under tight security, saw the prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Adegboyega Awomolo, calling its second witness to testify. The witness claimed that Kanu incited violence and established the Eastern Security Network (ESN), allegedly as an armed wing of IPOB.
However, under cross-examination, the witness admitted ignorance of several key facts, including that a previous court ruling had already struck out some of the charges against Kanu. Defense lawyers pressed the witness on whether he was aware that the allegations of terrorism and incitement to destroy public property had been dismissed—a claim he denied knowledge of.
The defense team, led by renowned lawyer and former Attorney General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN), objected to the prosecution’s attempt to tender new documents in court, citing a lack of prior service. Justice Omotosho firmly reminded the prosecution that all evidence and documents must be duly served to the defense before they can be admitted. He emphasized the importance of fair hearing and due process.
At one point, a letter allegedly from a former Attorney General of the Federation became a point of contention. The defense maintained they had never received the document, and even Justice Omotosho confirmed he had not seen it. Following this, the prosecution formally withdrew the letter from the court’s records.
Kanu’s legal team, comprising over a dozen lawyers, including Aloy Ejimakor, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, and Emeka Etiaba (SAN), further insisted on viewing all materials presented by the prosecution. Despite the prosecution’s claims that they were prepared to serve the documents, the defense argued that the late submission was prejudicial to their case.
As proceedings became increasingly contentious, the prosecution requested an adjournment to allow for proper service of documents—a motion the court granted.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the trial to Tuesday, May 7, 2025, specifically for the continuation and examination of the prosecution’s witness. The court also noted that an application regarding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s personal belongings is expected to be submitted.
