Nnamdi Kanu’s Terrorism Trial: Senior Advocates Withdraw, Defendant Challenges Court’s Jurisdiction

The terrorism trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, took a new turn on Thursday as all Senior Advocates representing him withdrew from the case.

At the resumed hearing before the Federal High Court in Abuja, Kanu personally objected to the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the Court of Appeal had previously discharged him of all charges.

However, presiding judge Justice James Omotosho directed Kanu to open his defence, ruling that jurisdictional issues could be raised on appeal or included in his final written address.

The matter was consequently adjourned to October 24, 2025, for the defendant to commence his defence.

Court documents indicate that Kanu has listed 23 witnesses to testify in his case.

The IPOB leader is facing a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism before the Federal High Court, Abuja.