Nnamdi Kanu Opens Defence, Lists 23 Witnesses Including Wike, Sanwo-Olu, Ex-Military Chiefs

DETAINED leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has formally opened his defence, signalling a major turning point in his prolonged trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The development came just hours after protests erupted in parts of the capital, led by Omoyele Sowore, the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), who joined other activists in demanding Kanu’s release.

Kanu had previously filed a motion challenging the court’s jurisdiction. However, in a fresh application on Tuesday, 21 October, he informed Justice James Omotosho of his decision to proceed with his defence, in compliance with an earlier court directive requiring him to begin on 24 October 2025.

He disclosed plans to call 23 witnesses divided into two categories — “ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable witnesses” — to testify under Section 232 of the Evidence Act. Kanu also requested 90 days to conclude his defence, indicating he may now be representing himself rather than relying solely on his legal team led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).

Among those listed as witnesses are former Defence Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami (SAN), and ex-Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.

Kanu told the court that he would personally testify to “deny the allegations” and clarify the political motivations behind his actions. He assured the judge that he would not waste the court’s time and that “justice must be seen to be done.”

Meanwhile, on the same day, a magistrate court in Abuja ordered the remand of Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, along with 12 others who participated in the protest calling for his release.

The group faces charges of conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance. Their case has been adjourned until 24 October.