By Chidimma Okwara
Abuja, Nigeria—The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 20, 2025, to deliver judgment on the remaining terrorism and treasonable felony charges filed by the Federal Government against the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has fixed November 20 for judgment in the terrorism charges brought by the federal government against the Biafra nation agitator, Nnamdi Kanu.
The judge fixed the date on Friday following the blunt refusal of Kanu to open his defense as he had on several occasions indicated.
Kanu had earlier filed a motion on Friday challenged his trial on the ground that terrorism was no longer an offense in Nigeria as at today.
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The decision was made by the presiding judge following the adoption of final written addresses by both the prosecution and the defense teams. The setting of this date marks a crucial stage in the protracted legal saga that has significant security and political implications across Nigeria, particularly in the Southeast region.
Mr. Kanu is facing a seven-count amended charge centered on terrorism, treasonable felony, incitement, and operating an unlawful society. These charges stem largely from his activities and broadcasts as the head of IPOB, an organization advocating for the secession of the region.
During the recent sitting, Kanu’s lead counsel argued that the charges against their client are fundamentally flawed and lack evidential merit. They urged the court to discharge and acquit Mr. Kanu, contending that the prosecution has failed to establish a prima facie case that warrants putting him through a full trial.
Conversely, the prosecution team, led by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), maintained that sufficient evidence has been presented to connect Kanu to the alleged offenses. They implored the court to reject the no-case submission and order the defendant to open his defense.
Implications of the November 20 Ruling
The upcoming judgment is viewed as a landmark ruling that could redefine the trajectory of the separatist movement and regional security.
If the court upholds the no-case submission, all remaining charges against Kanu will be struck out, potentially leading to his release from custody. However, if the court dismisses the submission, Kanu will be directed to begin presenting his defense, thereby moving the matter into the full trial phase.
Due to the volatile nature of the case and the widespread following of Nnamdi Kanu, security around the Federal High Court premises is expected to be exceptionally tight on November 20. Security agencies typically deploy heavily to manage crowds and prevent any breakdown of law and order associated with the high emotions surrounding the verdict.
The legal process leading up to this judgment has included several significant rulings, including a previous Appeal Court decision that addressed the issue of Kanu’s controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021, though subsequent Supreme Court rulings have maintained his detention pending the outcome of the charges.
All eyes are now focused on the Federal High Court as November 20 approaches to determine the next chapter in this pivotal legal confrontation.
