Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a new motion before the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to strike out all remaining charges against him in his ongoing trial.
Kanu’s legal counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, argued that the government has repeatedly violated court orders and constitutional provisions in its prosecution of the case. The motion, filed through Kanu’s legal team, maintains that the charges — primarily centered on terrorism and incitement — are politically motivated and unsupported by credible evidence.
During the resumed hearing, Ejimakor told the court that the prolonged detention and trial process violate Kanu’s right to a fair hearing as guaranteed under Section 36 of the Constitution and Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The Federal Government, however, insists that the prosecution is lawful, citing Kanu’s alleged role in inciting violence and economic sabotage in the South-East region.
Observers note that this latest motion could determine the trajectory of the high-profile case, which has dragged on for over four years. Human rights advocates, including Amnesty International, have renewed calls for due process and transparency in the trial.
The court has adjourned the case for ruling, with expectations that a decision could reshape the legal and political landscape of separatist movements in Nigeria.