Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is scheduled to face a fresh trial starting March 21, 2025, before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja. This development marks a significant shift in the long-running legal battle over Kanu’s push for Biafran independence.
Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed that the legal team is fully prepared for the upcoming proceedings. “It’s now official that Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu shall appear before a new judge on 21st March 2025. It’s a milestone, and we are primed and ready,” Ejimakor stated. He noted that the case will be heard in Court 7 and will effectively begin anew, erasing all prior proceedings dating back to Kanu’s arrest in 2015. This includes rulings and pending appeals from his earlier appearances before Justice Binta Nyako, which Ejimakor described as “gone out of the window.”
However, Ejimakor raised concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the charges Kanu will face. “He would be rearraigned on charges that we have not seen,” he explained. “We received a hearing notice, but no charges have been sent to us. We really don’t know the charges we are facing on March 21.” He accused the government of employing tactics to hinder the defense, alleging that authorities often serve charges at the last minute—sometimes as late as the day before a hearing or even in court—leaving little time for preparation. “The charges would have been in the court registry, but we can’t start asking the court to give us a copy,” he added.
The reassignment of Kanu’s case follows a tumultuous period in 2024. In September, Kanu challenged Justice Binta Nyako to step down from his trial, citing concerns over impartiality. Although Justice Nyako initially recused herself, the Chief Judge of the Abuja Federal High Court overruled her decision. In December, Justice Nyako indefinitely adjourned the case, prompting Kanu to vow he would not appear in court again until an impartial judge was appointed. The appointment of Justice Omotosho appears to address this demand, setting the stage for the trial to resume.
Kanu has been in custody facing charges tied to his advocacy for Biafra’s secession, a cause that has sparked both support and controversy. As the March 21 date approaches, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court to see how this next chapter unfolds.
