By Nations Curiosity| November 2025 | Abuja, Nigeria
The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja with a new motion, seeking the dismissal of all terrorism-related charges filed against him by the Federal Government of Nigeria. He is also demanding his immediate and unconditional release from detention.
Kanu Seeks Court’s Intervention Over Prolonged Detention
In the fresh legal application filed through his legal team, Kanu argued that the charges leveled against him are baseless, unconstitutional, and politically motivated. According to his lawyers, the continued prosecution of the IPOB leader violates both domestic and international laws that protect the rights to fair trial and personal liberty.
Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest and extraordinary rendition to Nigeria in 2021, contends that his ongoing detention constitutes a gross violation of his fundamental human rights as guaranteed under Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution.
His counsel urged the Federal High Court to strike out the charges and discharge him of all allegations, insisting that the prosecution has repeatedly failed to present a credible case or evidence linking him to acts of terrorism or treason.
Background of the Case
Nnamdi Kanu’s legal troubles began years ago when he emerged as the prominent voice behind the Indigenous People of Biafra, a group advocating for the independence of the South-East region of Nigeria. After being first arrested in 2015, Kanu was granted bail in 2017 but later fled the country following a military operation in his hometown of Afara-Ukwu, Umuahia.
In 2021, he was rearrested abroad and brought back to Nigeria under controversial circumstances a development that sparked widespread reactions from both local and international observers. Since then, Kanu has been held in DSS custody in Abuja, facing multiple counts of alleged terrorism, secessionist activities, and incitement.
Defense Team Challenges Legality of the Charges
In the latest motion, Kanu’s legal representatives maintain that the government’s case is marred by procedural irregularities and violations of due process. They emphasized that previous rulings by appellate courts had already questioned the legality of his extradition and detention, noting that the government has ignored these judicial pronouncements.
The motion further argues that the prosecution has failed to comply with court orders, including those directing that Kanu be moved to a regular correctional facility or granted access to proper medical care and his legal team without restriction.
Court to Set Hearing Date Soon
The Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to fix a date for the hearing of Kanu’s fresh motion. Judicial sources indicate that the court will consider arguments from both sides before deciding whether to strike out the remaining charges or proceed with the trial.
Observers believe that this new legal push could determine the next phase of the long-standing case, which has continued to attract national and international attention due to its political, legal, and human rights dimensions.
Public and International Reactions
The renewed legal action has once again stirred public debate across Nigeria, particularly within the South-East, where Kanu commands a large following. Supporters have called on the Federal Government to comply with court rulings and release the IPOB leader, describing his detention as unlawful and oppressive.
Several human rights organizations and international bodies have also raised concerns over Kanu’s treatment and the broader implications for Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law. They argue that his continued incarceration despite various court orders undermines public confidence in the country’s judicial system.
What Lies Ahead
As the Federal High Court prepares to deliberate on the motion, analysts say the outcome could significantly impact both Nigeria’s political climate and the ongoing agitations in the South-East region.
Whether or not the court grants Kanu’s request for dismissal and release, the case remains a critical test of Nigeria’s judiciary and its ability to uphold justice without political interference.
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For now, supporters of the IPOB leader are hopeful that this fresh motion will mark a turning point in his prolonged legal battle with the Federal Government.