There was confusion at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday after detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, announced a surprising list of witnesses in his defence, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Sanwolu, Nyesom Wike; Minister of Works, David Umahi; and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd).
The development came just hours after activist Omoyele Sowore led a protest in parts of Abuja, demanding Kanu’s immediate release and an end to what he described as “politically motivated persecution.”
Kanu, who is facing terrorism-related charges filed by the Federal Government, formally opened his defence after several adjournments and procedural delays that have stalled his trial since 2021.
During the resumed hearing, his lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, informed the court that the defence team had assembled a list of key witnesses who played various roles in the events surrounding Kanu’s rendition from Kenya and his subsequent detention in Nigeria.
Ejimakor said the decision to call top political figures and former security chiefs as witnesses was necessary “to ensure transparency and expose the full chain of command behind the extraordinary rendition and unlawful treatment of the defendant.”
The move reportedly took the prosecution team by surprise, prompting murmurs among lawyers and security personnel inside the courtroom.
Prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), was said to have requested time to study the defence witness list and respond formally at the next sitting.
Sources at the court told reporters that the inclusion of figures like Wike, Umahi, and Buratai has “rattled” the prosecution and could open new dimensions in the long-running legal and political battle over Kanu’s case.
Outside the court, heavy security was deployed as pro-Biafra supporters gathered to show solidarity with Kanu, chanting slogans and displaying banners demanding his release.
Despite the tight security, the atmosphere was tense, with the protesters accusing the government of double standards and selective justice.
The trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako, adjourned the case to a later date for the continuation of Kanu’s defence, warning both parties to maintain decorum and avoid public comments capable of prejudicing the proceedings.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya.
His legal team insists that his continued detention violates court orders and international law, while the government maintains that the IPOB leader must face trial for offences threatening Nigeria’s unity and security.
Even though political debate and renewed calls from various groups are urging the Federal Government to adopt a political solution to the lingering Biafra agitation, the latest twist in the case signals it may further slow down and drag the proceedings, which began in 2019.
