Nnamdi Kanu Appears in Court Today, Seeks Time to Prepare Defence – Omoleye Sowore Arrested

Abuja, Nigeria – October 24, 2025

There was palpable tension at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday as the unlawfully detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, appeared before Justice Omotosho in continuation of his long-drawn trial bordering on terrorism.

Kanu, who was brought to court under heavy security around 9 a.m., told the judge he could not open his defence because he had not been given access to his case file. He therefore requested 90 days to enable him to study the documents and adequately prepare for his defence.

The proceedings, however, unfolded amid tight security and restricted access. Reports from the court indicate that security operatives barred many observers, family members, and sympathizers from entering the courtroom. Kanu’s sister lamented that she was also prevented from gaining entry into the Kuje Magistrate Court, where their younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, made an appearance on a separate matter.

The trial, which has drawn both national and international attention, took another dramatic turn on Thursday when Kanu dismissed his entire legal team, including senior advocates led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN). The IPOB leader announced his intention to represent himself, a move that stunned observers within and outside Nigeria.

In a brief statement, Agabi confirmed his withdrawal, noting that his client was exercising his constitutional right to self-representation. “It is his choice, and it must be respected,” he said.

Justice Omotosho, however, overruled Kanu’s earlier challenge to the court’s jurisdiction, insisting that the trial must continue. The case was subsequently adjourned to allow the defendant to make adequate preparations.

Meanwhile, the drama extended beyond the courtroom when rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore was arrested by police officers on the court premises shortly after Kanu’s session.

Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin later confirmed the arrest, saying it was linked to an alleged violation of a court order restricting access to certain areas of the court complex. “The thirteen people arrested earlier all gave statements indicating that Mr. Sowore led them into the restricted area,” Hundeyin said. “It would be unfair to charge others while leaving out their leader.”

Sowore’s arrest has sparked widespread outrage among Nigerians and human rights advocates, who accuse the government of intensifying its crackdown on dissenting voices and opposition figures.

As Kanu’s trial drags on amid claims of rights violations and political persecution, concerns continue to mount over Nigeria’s shrinking democratic space and the government’s intolerance of criticism.