The Federal High Court in Abuja resumed the trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. The session was dominated by a detailed review of past video and audio broadcasts allegedly made by Kanu, sparking sharp exchanges between prosecution and defense.
According to Kanu’s Special Counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the hearing focused on recordings the prosecution claims contain inflammatory remarks made during periods of national tension, including the 2020 EndSARS protests and various security challenges in the South-East.
The prosecution submitted flash drives marked as exhibits, which were played in court. In the recordings, Kanu allegedly criticized Fulani herders, accused South-East governors of betrayal, and voiced strong opinions about political figures like Governor Hope Uzodinma and former Rivers Governor, now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The prosecution argued that the broadcasts incited violence and supported a secessionist agenda. However, the defense, led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), maintained that the statements were expressions of political opinion, protected under constitutional rights to freedom of speech.
A key witness for the prosecution identified Kanu in the videos and attempted to link the broadcasts to attacks on security installations. But under cross-examination, the witness admitted being unaware that some charges referenced had previously been struck out by the court.
The court also reviewed IPOB’s 2017 proscription, a document admitted without objection by the defense. However, the defense highlighted that the ban was imposed via an **ex parte order, issued without IPOB’s legal representation—a point that continues to draw criticism.
Additionally, a letter from the former Attorney General authorizing Kanu’s arrest was presented, though the defense claimed it was never officially served to them, raising concerns over fair hearing.
Justice Omotosho reaffirmed the importance of proper service of evidence, emphasizing the court’s commitment to due process.
The trial was adjourned to Thursday, May 8, for the continuation of witness examination and further arguments.
