Judge Warns Federal Government Over Delays in Nnamdi Kanu Trial, Threatens to Strike Out Case

Tensions ran high at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday as the trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed with heated courtroom exchanges and mounting frustration over delays from the prosecution.

Presiding over the proceedings, the trial judge issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, criticizing its legal team for repeated procedural lapses and a lack of preparedness.

“You must pick six days within two weeks and present all your witnesses. If you fail to do so, I will strike out your case as weak,” the judge said firmly, drawing a mix of approval and surprise from those present in the courtroom.

Witness DismissedThe trial session began with the cross-examination of the prosecution’s second witness, but quickly unraveled.

The witness gave conflicting responses, frequently saying “I don’t know” and contradicting earlier statements. His lack of clarity and credibility led the court to discharge him from the witness stand.

The situation worsened when the prosecution failed to present its third witness. In response, the judge adjourned the case to May 28 and 29, and June 6, 16, 18, and 19, 2025, warning the legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adegboyega Awomolo, to streamline its witness list.

“We cannot continue like this. Reduce your witnesses so this matter can end soon,” the judge said, clearly displeased.

In contrast, the defense team, led by former Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), appeared composed and well-prepared.

They submitted video evidence aimed at discrediting the prosecution’s case.

Among the videos was a clip of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who previously blamed IPOB for violence in Orlu, now suggesting the violence may have had political motivations.

Additional footage featured DSS Director Oluwatosin Ajayi and retired General T.Y. Danjuma, both urging citizens to defend themselves.

The prosecution’s witness, however, refused to comment on the videos, saying it was not his role to interpret such public statements.

Cross-Examination Reveals Weaknesses in Prosecution’s CaseUnder intense questioning from the defense, the witness admitted he had not personally investigated any IPOB members and had no direct evidence linking Kanu to violent activity.

He also confirmed that he had not responded to a letter from the Attorney General’s office and had failed to submit an official investigation report to the court.