In a significant development in his ongoing trial, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of his decision to personally open his defence and call high-profile witnesses, including former and serving public officials.
In a motion he personally filed on October 21, 2025, Kanu notified the court presided by Justice James Omotosho that he intends to call a total of 23 witnesses, whom he categorized as either “ordinary but material” or “vital and compellable.
He further requested that the court grant a 90-day window to enable him conclude his defence.
Among those listed as “compellable witnesses” are prominent national figures, including, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), Former Minister of Defence, Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), Former Chief of Army Staff, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Dave Umahi, Minister of Works, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, Former Governor of Abia State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State, Abubakar Malami, Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, Former Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Yusuf Magaji Bichi, former Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS)
The motion indicates that Kanu may have dismissed his legal team, previously led by Kanu Agabi, as he personally signed the documents submitted to the court.
He further assured the court that sworn statements from voluntary witnesses would be made available.
This move comes after a medical panel commissioned by the court submitted a report declaring Kanu fit to stand trial, effectively clearing the way for substantive proceedings to resume.
Justice Omotosho had earlier ordered the defendant to open his defence on October 24, 2025.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
