Nnamdi Kanu tells Abuja court he is ready to begin his defence, lists prominent political and security figures among 23 witnesses in his treason trial.
Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has told the Federal High Court in Abuja that he is ready to open his defence, marking a significant turn in his long-running treason trial.
The development came on Tuesday, just hours after human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore led street protests in Abuja demanding Kanu’s release.
In a motion dated October 21, 2025, Kanu informed the court that he would proceed in compliance with the directive issued on October 16, which ordered him to begin his defence on October 24.
“I am ready to proceed with my defence pursuant to the order of this honourable court,” Kanu stated.
According to filings sighted by reporters, Kanu plans to call 23 witnesses, categorised as ordinary but material witnesses and vital and compellable witnesses — the latter to be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.
Among the high-profile names listed as compellable witnesses are former Minister of Defence Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd.), former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma.
Others include Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, and former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu. Also named were former Attorney General Abubakar Malami (SAN), former NIA Director-General Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, and DSS Director-General Yusuf Magaji Bichi, alongside other undisclosed witnesses.
Kanu personally signed and filed the motion, raising speculation that he may have disengaged his legal team led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Kanu Agabi.
The IPOB leader also requested 90 days to complete his defence, citing the volume of witnesses to be presented.
“I will testify on my own behalf, providing a sworn account of the facts, denying the allegations, and explaining the political context of my statements and actions,” Kanu added.
He assured the court of full cooperation, stating that the proceedings would not face unnecessary delays.
“No precious time of the honourable court would be delayed. Justice must not only be done but be manifestly seen to have been done.”
The case, which has spanned several years, continues to attract public and international attention, with growing calls for a fair and transparent judicial process.
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