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Tag: Nnamdi Kanu

  • The Nnamdi Kanu affair

    The Nnamdi Kanu affair

    When self-determination agitator Nnamdi Kanu sacked his lawyers during the trial court’s last sitting, he signaled his preference for legal histrionics rather than substance. He will go on to give Nigerians and the courts a horse dose of that medicine as he takes over his defence. Already he is assembling, at least theoretically, a cavalry of international and domestic witnesses certain to grind his trial either to a halt entirely or to a snail’s pace. Many of the witnesses in question loath him; but he believes he stands on excellent legal grounds to haul them before the Federal High Court, Abuja where he expects to put them through punishing cross-examinations disconcerting enough to make them stammer or implicate themselves. He will not have his wish, of course, but he will entertain everyone, including himself, snd animate the gullible.

    In July 2024, this column had weighed in on Mr Kanu’s long-running trial saga by suggesting that it was time to discontinue his case, not because there were no grounds to lock him up for good, but because the trial had become disruptive and distracting. In addition, argued the writer, it was time to respect the Southeast elite who had, speaking as one man it seemed, importuned President Bola Tinubu to release their son to them, with the region’s political elite standing as guarantors. It seemed a fair campaign, suggested the writer, but cautioned that restraining the voluble agitator who thrived on chaos and noise would be difficult, if not impossible. If they could guarantee that they would rein him in, a prospect the writer doubted, it was time to discontinue his case and release him. Mr Kanu, the scarlet pimpernel, had been arrested in 2015 and charged in court, but fled in 2017 while on bail, and was renditioned in 2021 and charged again in January 2022.

    In 2025, the case is still as far from resolution as it was when he was extraordinarily renditioned from Kenya to Nigeria. His co-agitator, the Southwest’s flamboyant and superstitious Sunday Adeyemo, alias Sunday Igboho, had since got his freedom, not from Nigeria, but from Benin Republic where he had fled, was tried, and eventually released. It turned out that the Beninese justice system is not as convoluted as Nigeria’s, nor Mr Igboho himself as dramatic, incendiary, tragic and flawed as Mr Kanu. As a matter of fact, where Mr Igboho spoke in terms of using supernatural powers to achieved self-determination, with a hint of violence if it came to it, Mr Kanu spoke of nothing else but threats and violence, following up his daily radio and video harangues with concrete steps that led to the formation of militia groups dedicated to the projection of unconstitutional power.

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    Seeing how Mr Kanu has theatrically stalled his case, treated his lawyers scornfully, and like activist Omoyele Sowore, carried himself with a pomposity even fascist Benito Mussolini never attempted, this writer now balks at Mr Kanu’s release or pardon, regardless of whatever strings are attached. He deserves a speedy trial, if his legal chicaneries will allow. Indeed, from all indications, he will get a fair trial, despite the allegations of bias levelled against the Nigerian justice system. And since he has sacked his lawyers, obviously by mutual consent in order to allow him leeway to indulge his dramatic and bombastic escapades, the ball will remain squarely in his court. However, the courts should not allow him in the driver’s seat, let alone acquiesce to his whimsical speed. It is important for the courts to be in unequivocal control of the substance of the case and the tempo of the trial. Mr Kanu has developed a habit of not just pomposity, he also suffers from delusions of grandeur and would love to seize control of proceedings should the judge be lax in any way. They should not let him.

    Last week’s street agitation in support of Mr Kanu, promoted and executed by Mr Sowore using his foreign grants, is a meddlesome attempt to confuse, complicate and undermine the terrorism trial. The protests presumed, like many non-south easterners, that there was a regional consensus in favour of Mr Kanu’s release. There was none. And there is unlikely to be any. The violence Mr Kanu’s supporters, particularly the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), left in their wake has shattered families, destroyed lives, and caused cataclysmic economic losses in the region such that nothing would please some south-easterners more than to see the agitator locked up for a long time. They may forego reparations, but they want their pound of flesh, with or without blood. In any case, what is paramount is that his enemies and his supporters have called for justice. Let the courts ensure that ultimately justice is served, no matter how much delayed.

    The media have generally tended to line up behind Mr Kanu. It is hard to understand why. They may perhaps simply be pivoting from their deep animosity towards President Tinubu to supporting anything and anyone opposed to the president, anything to bring the president to heel. Whatever the case, no one who has reflected on the Kanu case will fail to appreciate that it goes far beyond what the president has done or not done. The Kanu affair is first a regional ploy, then a national security issue, and finally a personal and megalomaniacal drive by a man so enamoured of speaking and acting violence in ways that are mocking, confrontational and unfeeling. Whether the courts can find any mitigation for his words and methods, for instance judicially appraising the manner of his rendition from Kenya in June 2021 and his exculpation by a Nairobi court in June 2025, is entirely up to the judges and the evidence adduced before their lordships. 

  • Court threatens to ‘make necessary orders’ as Kanu’s defence stalls

    Court threatens to ‘make necessary orders’ as Kanu’s defence stalls

    • IPOB leader says his witnesses coming from UK, USA, Ethiopia, Kenya, others

    • Court grants Sowore, Kanu’s lawyer, others N500,000 bail

    • Re-arrest activist on new charges

    • I’ll testify in Kanu’s trial if formally summoned- Wike

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has threatened to invoke its powers “to make the necessary orders” should the detained self acclaimed leader of the proscribed separatist group Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, fail to utilise the opportunity accorded him to conduct his defence in the terrorism charges against him.

    Justice James Omotosho said this while adjourning further hearing in Kanu’s terrorism trial till October 27 following an oral application for adjournment by the defendant, who is currently conducting his case after sacking his lawyers on Thursday.

    At the resumption of proceedings on Friday, prosecuting lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, told the court that the case was scheduled for defence and that he was ready.

    When it was his turn to speak, Kanu said he would be representing himself, and then told the court that he would not be able to open his defence as earlier planned, because he had not been able to access the case-file.

    He said his lawyers left him on October 23, and since then he had not been given the case-file.

    Kanu said those who were to bring the case-file to him in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), where he was being held, were unable to do so.

    He prayed the court for an adjournment till Monday, October 27 to enable him access the case-file and familiarise himself with its contents.

    Kanu told the court that he was expecting witnesses from all over the world, including the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Kenya and Ethiopia.

    He applied for an order that the DSS should allow him access to people even on Saturday and Sunday for the purpose of preparing his defence.

    When asked by the judge if he was aware that Kanu was calling witnesses from outside the country, Awomolo said he did not know where the defendant’s proposed witnesses were coming from, but he knew that Kanu listed a number of people who he planned to call.

    Awomolo said the prosecution was only interested in the defendant bringing his witnesses to court to conduct his defence as ordered by the court.

    He urged the court to note that Kanu has expended two, out of the six days allocated to him to open and close his defence, without being able to begin his defence.

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    Awomolo said: “The court should note that he (Kanu) has six days. He has spent two days, including today. I urge the court to stick with the case schedule earlier announced.”

    In his intervention, Justice Omotosho expressed doubt if the leader of Kanu’s former legal team, Kanu Agabi (SAN) would hold on to the defendant’s case-file after he announced his withdrawal from the case.

    He noted that the defendant did not raise the issue the previous day (Thursday) when Agabi and other senior lawyers in his former legal team were in court.

    The judge recalled that when he granted accelerated hearing in the case, none of the parties objected. He said days were accordingly allocated to each side to conduct its case. He added: “I will still stick to those numbers of days.”

    Justice Omotosho said although he did not believe that Agabi would keep the case-file after withdrawing from the case, he would grant the adjournment sought by Kanu in the interest of justice and fair hearing.

    The judge said: “The defendant has sought an adjournment till Monday for him to open his defence. The court will grant that request.

    “The right under Section 36 of the Constitution is a sacred right. The right is more than giving opportunity to the defendant. The right is not that the defendant must be compelled to exercise the right.

    “Now that the opportunity is not being used, I want to beg the defendant in the name of the Almighty God to utilise this opportunity.”

    Justice Omotosho noted that Kanu’s failure to utilise the opportunity was denying other defendants in other cases before his court the opportunity to have their cases heard.

    He added: “If the opportunity is not utilised, the court will not hesitate to invoke its powers.

    “We should make use of the judicial time given to us. The court will not continue to waste its time.

    “At the appropriate time, the court will invoke its powers and make the necessary orders,” the judge said.

    Justice Omotosho noted that although Kanu did not provide evidence that the DSS was eavesdropping on his interactions with his lawyers, the court granted his request to meet with his lawyers in the courtroom on October 22.

    The judge said he was surprised that the defendant and his legal team did not fully utilise the time allocated to them for that meeting, which was between 9am and 2pm.

    He then declared: “Henceforth, this court will not grant such an opportunity again. The claim that the DSS is eavesdropping on his interactions with his lawyers was not supported by evidence.

    “The DSS should provide him with opportunities to meet with his counsel. The DSS should give him access to his counsel even on Saturday and Sunday,” the judge said and adjourned till October 27.

    Court grants Sowore, 13 other pro-Kanu protesters bail at N500,000 each

    A Magistrate’s Court in Kuje, Abuja has granted bail to politician and online publisher, Omoyele Sowore, and 13 others arrested during Monday’s protest staged by them in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to compel the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, who is undergoing terrorism trial.

    They were arraigned on Friday before Magistrate Abubakar Umar Sai’id on two First Information Reports (FIRs) filed by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

    Named along with Sowore in the FIR are: Barrister Aloy Ejimakor (a member of the legal team sacked by Kanu on Thursday), Prince Emmanuel Kanu (said to be Kanu’s relative), Joshua Emmanuel and Bishop Wilson Anyalewechi.

    Others are: Barrister Okere Kingdom Nnamdi, Clinton Chimeneze, Gabriel Joshua, Isiaka Husseini, Onyekachi Ferdinand, Amadi Prince, Edison Ojisom, Godwill Obioma and Chima Onuchukwu.

    The 13 are charged with criminal conspiracy, disobedience of order promulgated by public officer, inciting disturbance and disturbance of public peace.

    The police said the offences are contrary to sections 152, 114 and 113 of the Penal Code Law.

    The FIRs read:

    *That on 20 day of October, 2025, you (1). Barrister Aliyu Ejimakor, (2). Prince Emmnauel Kanu, (3). Joshua Emmanuel, (4). Bishop Wilson Anyalewechi, (5). Barrister Okere Kingdom Nnamdi, (6). Clinton Chimeneze, (7). Gabriel Joshua, (8). Isiaka Husseini, (9). Onyekachi Ferdinand. (10). Amadi Prince, (11). Edison Ojisom, and (12). Godwill Obiama, all male adults of FCT Abuja were arrested by a team of security agents in different locations within FCT while involving yourselves in inciting disturbance, and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order, denying other citizens the freedom of movement, disrupting free flow of traffic while chanting war songs and requesting for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who is undergoing lawful trial at the Federal High Court in a manner that threatens national security.

    You thereby committed the above mentioned offences.

    *That on 20th day of October, 2025, you Chima Onuchukwu male adult of Ebonyi state, was arrested by a team of police officers at gate 8, Aso Villa, FCT Abuja, while carrying placards written, “Free Nnamdi Kanu” and inciting disturbance, and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order, and denying others citizens the freedom of movement, disrupting free flow of traffic while chanting war songs and requesting for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who is undergoing lawful trial at the Federal High Court in a manner that threatens national security. You thereby committed the above mentioned offences.

    They pleaded not guilty when their alleged offences were read to them during yesterday’s proceedings. Shortly after, their lawyers argued their bails, which the court granted with conditions.

    Each of them was granted bail at N500,000 with two sureties in like sum. They were each required to submit their passports, present a verified National Identification Number (NIN) and a three-year tax clearance certificate as part of the conditions.

    The court adjourned further hearing till December 15.

    Meanwhile, a Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed October 27 for the arraignment of Sowore and two others on a separate charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) in which he is accused of making false claim against President Bola Tinubu by calling him a criminal.

    The two other defendants listed in the five-count charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025 are X Incorp (formerly Twitter) and Meta (Facebook) Incorp.

    The charge was filed on September 16, few days after an earlier request by the DSS on Facebook and X, the platforms allegedly deployed by Sowore for the said false claim, to pull the misleading message down.

    In the charge, Sowore, a serial presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), is accused of contravening the provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024 and the Criminal Code Act.

    Their arraignment was to be held before Justice Mohammed Umar on September 30, but was postponed to October 27 when a defence lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, told the court that his client was not yet served with the charge sheet as required.

    Abubakar, who represented Sowore, noted that one of the defendants – X Incorp – was not represented by either a lawyer or an official and claimed that his client was not yet served with the charge.

    The defence lawyer contented that in a criminal case, it is mandatory that all the defendants are present in court for a proper arraignment to take place.

    At that point, the judge, Justice Umar, looked through the case-file and confirmed that X and Meta were served with the charge electronically, through their email addresses.

    On noting that Sowore was yet to be served personally (as required), the prosecuting lawyer sought the court’s permission to serve Sowore (who was in court) during the proceedings, a request the judge granted.

    Sowore’s lawyer, however, prayed for an adjournment to allow his client, who was just served the charge, adequate time and opportunity to prepare for his defence as provided under Section 282(6) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.

    Counts in the charge read:

    *That you, Omoyele Sowore, adult, male on or about the 25th day of August, 2025 did use your official X handle page, @Yele Sowore, to send out a message/ tweet as : ‘This criminal @officialPBAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly,’ which you know the said message to be false but posted it for the purpose of causing a breakdown of law and order in the country, especially among individuals, who hold divergent views on the personality of the President and CommanderinChief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 24 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024.

    *That you, Omoyele Sowore, adult male on or about the 26th day of August, 2025 did use your official Facebook page, Omoyele Sowore, to send out a message/ post as : ‘This criminal @officialPBAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly,’ which you know the said message/post to be false, but posted it for the purpose of causing a breakdown of law and order in the country, especially among individuals who hold divergent views on the personality of the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 24 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024.

    *That you, Omoyele Sowore, adult, male on or about the 25th day of August, 2025 using the instrumentality of X, via your official X account @Yele Sowore, did knowingly published defamatory material on your online platform viz: ‘This criminal @officialPBAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly,’ against the personality and reputation of the President and Commander _inChief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 375 of the Criminal Code Act.

    *That you, Omoyele Sowore, adult, male on or about the 26th day of August, 2025 using the instrumentatity of Facebook, via your official Facebook account Omoyele Sowore, did knowingly published defamatory material on your online platform viz: ‘This criminal @officialPBAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly,’ against the personality and reputation of the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 375 of the Criminal Code Act.

    *That you, Omoyele Sowore, adult, male on or about the 26th day of August, 2025 with intent to cause public fear and disturbance, published false information on your official X and Facebook accounts @Yele Sowore, respectively, against the personality and reputation of the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act and punishable under the same Act.

  • Kanu sacks five SANs, others

    Kanu sacks five SANs, others

    • IPOB leader insists on on self-representation

    The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, yesterday dismissed his entire legal team.

    He opted to conduct his terrorism trial personally before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Kanu, who announced the decision during yesterday’s proceedings, told Justice James Omotosho that he had taken back his case from his lawyers and was prepared to represent himself.

    Lead defence counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), informed the court that the team’s presence was purely out of respect for the court.

    He announced that the senior lawyers, including Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Joseph Akubo (SAN), Paul Erokoro (SAN), and Emeka Etiaba (SAN), had withdrawn from the case.

    Agabi explained: “The defendant has taken this case back from us, and we respect that decision.”

    Justice Omotosho turned to the defendant for confirmation.

    Kanu affirmed the sack of his lawyers, saying he would now handle his defence personally.

    The judge then ordered all remaining members of the defence team, except the SANs, to leave the courtroom, a directive they immediately obeyed.

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    Kanu subsequently informed the court that he would not proceed with opening his defence as ordered, arguing that the court lacked jurisdiction to try him.

    He raised four grounds for objection: first, that the Federal Government was allegedly in contempt of the Court of Appeal judgment, which, he claimed, had acquitted him.

    The second ground was that the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act, 2013 and the Customs and Excise Act under which he was charged had been repealed.

    The third basis, according to him, was that he had been denied a fair hearing owing to his detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).

    Fourthly, he argued that a medical report submitted by a Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)-appointed team certifying him fit for trial was allegedly forged.

    Kanu denied ever being examined by the said medical panel or providing any samples for testing.

    He urged the court to declare the proceedings void and order his immediate release.

    Responding, prosecution counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) argued that the issues raised were baseless and had been resolved in previous rulings.

    He said Kanu’s claims should have been made formally via affidavit evidence, not oral argument.

    Awomolo clarified that the Court of Appeal judgment Kanu relied on had been set aside by the Supreme Court on December 15, 2023.

    He also faulted the allegation of forgery, noting that the same report had been reviewed and accepted by Kanu’s former senior lawyers without objection.

    Justice Omotosho reaffirmed that all the issues raised by Kanu had been addressed in his September 26 ruling, where he held that the defendant had a case to answer.

    He said the medical report had already been admitted and acted upon, and the court could not revisit it.

    “I call upon and appeal to the defendant to open his defence,” the judge said.

    “This is the opportunity the Constitution grants him under Section 36—to be heard or to waive that right expressly or by conduct.”

    At that point, Dr. Ikpeazu pleaded that Kanu be given time to gather his thoughts.

    Kanu himself told the court that he had not had adequate time to prepare, having only three hours of consultation the previous day.

    The prosecution did not object, prompting Justice Omotosho to adjourn the trial to today for Kanu to open his defence.

    The judge disclosed that he had signed the witness summons requested by the defendant, allowing him to call witnesses, including former and serving governors, ministers, and security chiefs.

  • Nnamdi Kanu: Government should not yield to blackmail

    Nnamdi Kanu: Government should not yield to blackmail

    Sir: The recent protests demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), have once again brought the long and complicated issue of separatism, violence, and national unity back into the public space. While protest is a constitutional right, it must be guided by facts, reason, and respect for law. The question before Nigerians today is not about sentiment or ethnic loyalty, but about justice, peace, and the survival of a united nation.

    To understand why Nnamdi Kanu should not be freed, one must recall the record of events and the nature of the movement he led. IPOB, under his leadership, was declared a terrorist organization by the federal government in 2017, following several violent attacks, hate speeches, destruction of public properties, and threats to national peace and coexistence. Through his online broadcasts on Radio Biafra, Kanu consistently used inflammatory language, calling for the destruction of the Nigerian state and encouraging young men to take up arms against security personnel. His words, actions, and ideology have been directly linked to the emergence of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), a militant wing that has carried out numerous attacks on police stations, government buildings, and civilians in parts of the Southeast.

    Reports by the Nigerian Police Force and Amnesty International (2021) documented killings and arson committed by IPOB members and ESN operatives, including the murder of security officers, burning of electoral offices of INEC, and attacks on innocent travelers. Between 2020 and 2022 alone, dozens of police stations and government facilities were burnt in Anambra, Imo, and Ebonyi states, most of which were claimed by IPOB elements seeking to enforce sit-at-home orders declared by Kanu and his followers. These violent actions brought fear and economic paralysis to the region, affecting small businesses, schools, and hospitals.

    He once referred to Nigeria as a “zoo” and openly called other ethnic groups derogatory names, particularly the Hausa-Fulani, whom he labeled as “invaders.” The inflammatory and discriminatory language used by Kanu against other ethnic groups has created resentment and tension across the country.

    Kanu’s release would set a dangerous precedent that undermines Nigeria’s justice system. If individuals can threaten national unity, spread hate, encourage violence, and then gain public sympathy through protests and propaganda, it will weaken the moral and legal authority of the courts. The same constitution that protects Kanu’s right to a fair trial also requires that he be held accountable for his actions under the law. Selective justice is injustice itself.

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    The security situation in the Southeast remains fragile. Despite Kanu’s detention, there are still regular sit-at-home orders enforced by armed men who claim loyalty to him. Businesses have collapsed, students have missed exams, and hospitals have been forced to shut down on Mondays due to fear of attacks. If Kanu were to be released now, without repentance or rehabilitation, his followers would take it as a sign of victory, and violence could worsen. Releasing him without justice would be like rewarding those who caused the destruction.

    Even while in custody, his followers continue to circulate his old speeches filled with hatred and division. He has never publicly renounced violence nor called on his followers to stop attacking security forces. In contrast, many former militants and agitators in Nigeria from the Niger Delta region to the Northeast were granted leniency only after renouncing violence and committing to peace. Kanu has not done this. Instead, he continues to project himself as a victim of oppression rather than an offender against the law.

    The judiciary must be allowed to complete its process. Kanu’s case is already before competent courts. The Federal High Court, Abuja has been hearing his charges of terrorism and treasonable felony. The rule of law demands that the trial be concluded before any political or public decision can be made about his fate. Jumping to release him through protests or political pressure would amount to interference with the independence of the judiciary, a direct violation of Section 6 of the Constitution, which vests judicial powers solely in the courts.

    Nigeria’s unity, though imperfect, remains a collective trust. The scars of the 1967–1970 Civil War remind us of what division can cost in millions of lives, economic devastation, and decades of mistrust. Allowing Kanu’s ideology to thrive unchecked is to risk repeating that tragedy. The federal government’s decision to keep him in custody is not persecution but protection for the lives of ordinary citizens who want peace, protection for national stability, and protection for the integrity of the rule of law.

    •Abdulwahab Yusuf, yusufabdulwahab95@gmail.com

  • Police charge 13 with public disturbance, others over pro-Nnamdi Kanu protest

    Police charge 13 with public disturbance, others over pro-Nnamdi Kanu protest

    …Remanded in Kuje prison 

    The Police have charged 13 individuals with various offences, including public disturbance over their alleged involvement in Monday’s protest intended at compelling the Federal Government to release the detained self acclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu.

    Those charges in two separate First Information Report (FIR) are:

    Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, Joshua Emmanuel, Bishop Wilson Anyalewechi, Barrister Okere Kingdom Nnamdi, Clinton Chimeneze, Gabriel Joshua, Isiaka Husseini, Onyekachi Ferdinand, Amadi Prince, Edison Ojisom, Godwill Obioma and Chima Onuchukwu.

    While the first 12 suspects are listed in one of the FIRs, Onuchukeu is listed as the sole suspect in the other. Both FIRs are signed by Adedayo Adekunle, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP).

    The 13 are charged with criminal conspiracy, disobedience of order promulgated by public officer, inciting disturbance and disturbance of public peace.

    The police said the offences are contrary to sections 152, 114,and 113 of the Penal Code Law.

    The FIRs read: 

    *That on 20 day of October, 2025, you (1). Barrister Aliyu Ejimakor, (2). Prince Emmnauel Kanu, (3). Joshua Emmanuel, (4). Bishop Wilson Anyalewechi, (5). Barrister Okere Kingdom Nnamdi, (6). Clinton Chimeneze, (7). Gabriel Joshua, (8). Isiaka Husseini, (9). Onyekachi Ferdinand. (10). Amadi Prince, (11). Edison Ojisom, and (12). Godwill Obiama, all male adults of FCT Abuja were arrested by a team of security agents in different locations within FCT while involving yourselves in inciting disturbance, and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order, denying other citizens the freedom of movement, disrupting free flow of traffic while chanting war songs and requesting for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who is undergoing lawful trial at the Federal High Court in a manner that threatens national security.

    You thereby committed the above mentioned offences. 

    *That on 20th day of October, 2025, you Chima Onuchukwu male adult of Ebonyi state, was arrested by a team of police officers at gate 8, Aso Villa, FCT Abuja, while carrying placards written, “Free Nnamdi Kanu” and inciting disturbance, and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order, and denying others citizens the freedom of movement, disrupting free flow of traffic while chanting war songs and requesting for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who is undergoing lawful trial at the Federal High Court in a manner that threatens national security. You thereby committed the above mentioned offences. 

    One of the lawyers in Kanu’s legal team in his ongoing terrorism trial, Nnaemeka Ejiofor said he was aware that the suspects were taken before a Magistrate Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Kuje on Tuesday.

    Ejiofor said the suspects were not arraigned because they demanded that the case be stood down to enable them meet with their lawyers.

    The Magistrate stood the case down but later ordered that the suspects be remanded in Kuje prison and adjourned till October 24 for their arraignment. 

    The lawyer said they have filed an bail application for the suspects but have been unable to serve the police as required.

  • I’m safe but still in custody, says Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer

    I’m safe but still in custody, says Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer

    Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, has confirmed he remains in detention at the Kuje Prison, 24 hours after his arrest during the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.

    Ejimakor assured supporters of his safety on his status in a post on X (formerly Twitter) while expressing concerns about how his case was handled by the police.

    The human rights lawyer wrote: “I am safe and sound but still under custody at Kuje prison. The Magistrate refused to listen to our submissions. He insisted on remanding us till Friday and got his way”.

    Ejimakor also alleged that the authorities deliberately took his case to a particular court in Kuje instead of any of the other available Magistrate courts in the city.

    “For context: Keep in mind that they bypassed several Magistrate courts in town and headed to this one in Kuje,” he stated.

    Ejimakor was among those arrested on Monday during the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore.

    Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, called on legal regulatory bodies in Nigeria to sanction Ejimakor for participating in the ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.

    According to Onanuga, Ejimakor’s participation in the protest undermines legal ethics, given that Kanu’s case is still before a competent court.

    “I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore,” Onanuga wrote.

    “I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest. As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court.”

    Onanuga noted the prosecution had already concluded its case and that it was now the duty of Kanu’s legal team to focus on presenting a strong defence rather than engaging in public demonstrations.

  • Igbo traders close businesses in Ondo over Nnamdi Kanu

    Igbo traders close businesses in Ondo over Nnamdi Kanu

    Economic and business activities were on Monday paralysed in parts of Akure, the Ondo State capital, when Igbo traders joined the protest demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

    The Nation observed that several major commercial areas – including Carl Street, Ilesha Garage (known for motor and automobile spare parts), NEPA, Arakale, Ondo Road, Oyemekun Road, Adesida Road, and Old Garage – were shut, as shops and outlets owned by members of the Igbo community remained closed.

    Major supermarkets and business outlets operated by Igbo traders within the metropolis also locked their doors, leaving the usually bustling business districts quiet.

    In contrast, grocery shops and business owners from other ethnic backgrounds continued normal operations, creating a visible distinction along major streets.

    One of the traders, Mr. Uche Churchill described the development as “a clear show of solidarity” with the detained IPOB leader.”

    “The Igbos here in Akure have always joined in any civil action calling for Kanu’s release. Today’s shutdown is our own peaceful way of lending a voice,” Churchill said.

    Another trader, Mr Okafor Mark, said members of the Igbo community were warned not to open their shops in solidarity with Kanu. 

    He noted that various Igbo unions and associations in the state met and agreed to observe the sit-at-home directive.

    “We held a meeting and agreed to show solidarity for Nnamdi Kanu, which is why shops are locked today. It was a serious warning. In fact, anyone who opened their shop would be sanctioned and fined. So, we had to comply and stay indoors,” he explained.

    There was a noticeable presence of heavily armed security operatives stationed at strategic locations across Akure metropolis – particularly around areas previously identified as potential flashpoints for demonstrations.

    Security personnel were sighted at key points such as the Central Bank area, Fiwasaye axis, Cathedral Junction, and other major locations within the city.

    Speaking on the situation, Ondo Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, advised parents to warn their children and wards against fomenting trouble that could disrupt the peace of the state.

    CP Lawal, who led a spot assessment tour across Akure to beef up security, said officers had been deployed to strategic areas to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

    “No traces of protest were seen across the state, as you can see. All our men have been positioned across the three senatorial districts to arrest anyone found breaching the peace,” he said.

  • JUST IN: Police disperse #FreeNnamdiKanu protesters in Abuja

    JUST IN: Police disperse #FreeNnamdiKanu protesters in Abuja

    The Police on Monday fired teargas near the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja to break up a gathering of demonstrators demanding the release of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.

    A large contingent of police and military personnel had earlier surrounded the area, blocking access to nearby streets. 

    Details shortly…

  • JUST IN: Sowore leads #FreeNnamdikanuNow protest in Abuja 

    JUST IN: Sowore leads #FreeNnamdikanuNow protest in Abuja 

    The convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, Omoyele Sowore is leading a protest in Abuja in front of the Trancorp Hilton Hotel. 

    The protest tagged: #freeNnamdiKanuNow march is being monitored by the police who have barricaded the area to prevent further movement by Sowore and his group. 

    Details shortly…

  • NYCN warns youths against joining Sowore’s protest for IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu

    NYCN warns youths against joining Sowore’s protest for IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu

    The Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has cautioned youths against participating in a planned protest scheduled for October 20, 2025.

    The planned protest is spearheaded by activist Omoyele Sowore over the continued detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

    Chairman of the NYCN Interim Management Committee, Barr. Buhari Shehu, in a statement on Sunday, disclosed that the Federal Government, through the Police Force, has obtained an order from the Federal High Court in Abuja restraining the organisers and participants from holding the protest.

    The organisation also noted the United States Embassy in Abuja had issued an advisory to its nationals in Nigeria with regards to their movement in the nation’s capital. 

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    Shehu warned youths to avoid areas where the protest might take place tomorrow. 

    The statement reads: “This development should serve as a serious precautionary signal to Nigerian youths about the potential dangers of joining the demonstration.

    “In light of this development, we urge all Nigerian youths to exercise restraint and stay out of trouble. We are concerned that the planned protest may lead to a breakdown of law and order, which could put lives and property at risk.”

    The organisation advised young Nigerians to channel their grievances and demands through lawful and peaceful means rather than resorting to street protests that could be hijacked by mischief-makers.

    It added: “We remain committed to promoting youth welfare, peace, and development in Nigeria. We will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to address the challenges facing our youth and our nation.

    “We have no other country and place to live than Nigeria, and we all must come together to safeguard our dear nation.”