Federal Government Closes Treason Case Against IPOB Leader Nnamdi Kanu as Court Sets July 18 for Defense No-Case Submission

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu

The Nigerian government has officially closed its case against Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been detained since 2021 on charges of treasonable felony and related offences stemming from his advocacy for Biafra’s independence.

The development occurred during a court session on Thursday, where the prosecution presented its final witness. Lead government counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), announced the closure of the prosecution's case following the conclusion of testimony from the fifth prosecution witness (PW5).

Kanu’s lead defense counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), responded by informing the court of the defense's intention to file a no-case submission, challenging the sufficiency of the prosecution's evidence to warrant a defense.

Special counsel to Kanu, Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed that the court has granted the defense 14 days to file its written address on the no-case submission. The prosecution will then have 14 days to respond. Justice James Omotosho subsequently adjourned the case to July 18 for the next hearing.

"Today, the Federal Republic of Nigeria CLOSED its case against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The Court granted the defense 14 days to file its written address on a no-case submission & 14 days to the prosecution to respond. The Court then adjourned to 18th July. Thank you for your support," Ejimakor stated in a post after the proceedings.

The federal government has accused Kanu of inciting violence and pushing separatist rhetoric through his public statements and broadcasts, particularly in Nigeria’s southeastern region. Kanu’s arrest and continued detention have generated significant national and international debate, with human rights organizations and supporters alleging political persecution and suppression of free speech.

Kanu’s legal team maintains that the charges are politically motivated and have called for his unconditional release. The court’s decision on the no-case submission will determine whether the trial will proceed to the defense stage or if the charges will be dismissed entirely.

The case remains a pivotal one, with potential consequences not only for Kanu’s personal liberty but also for Nigeria’s approach to separatist movements and political dissent.