Courtroom Clash Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Terrorism Charges
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja presided over a contentious hearing where the Federal Government urged the court to dismiss Nnamdi Kanu’s no-case submission. The prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), argued that sufficient evidence had been presented to warrant Kanu entering a defense against allegations of terrorism and inciting violence.
Prosecution’s Stand: Evidence of Terrorism
Awomolo highlighted the presentation of five witnesses and numerous exhibits, including video and audio recordings, to substantiate the charges against Kanu. He emphasized that Kanu’s admissions of leadership in the proscribed IPOB and his alleged calls for violence were not mere boasts but actionable threats under the law.
Defense’s Counter: Boasts Not Crimes
Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), countered by arguing that the prosecution failed to prove any criminal intent behind Kanu’s statements, which he described as hyperbolic boasts. Agabi also criticized the prosecution’s reliance on unauthenticated evidence and highlighted the prolonged solitary confinement of Kanu as a violation of international law.
Adjournment for Ruling
After considering the arguments from both sides, Justice Omotosho adjourned the case until October 10, 2025, to deliver a ruling on whether Kanu should be acquitted or required to present a defense.