Set Me Free, I Won’t Return To Detention — Nnamdi Kanu Tells Court

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Tuesday made an emotional plea before the Federal High Court in Abuja, demanding his immediate release while insisting that he would not return to detention.

Kanu, who is representing himself after sacking his legal team, addressed the court directly, stating: “Set me free. I will not go back to detention because there is no valid charge against me.”

The IPOB leader maintained that his continued trial is baseless and violates both domestic law and international treaties. He argued that there is no existing charge known to Nigerian law that warrants his ongoing incarceration or prosecution.

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The dramatic courtroom exchange came after the court overruled Kanu’s no-case submission and directed him to either enter his defence or file a final written address. Instead, Kanu submitted a motion and affidavit insisting that the case lacks legal merit.

Prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), urged the court to treat Kanu’s filings as his final written address and move to judgment. He accused the defendant of attempting to delay proceedings and manipulate the judicial process.

However, Justice James Omotosho held that Kanu’s documents would be considered during judgment and granted him additional time to either defend himself or properly consult legal experts.

The matter was adjourned to November 5, 2025, with the court warning that if Kanu fails to open his defence, he will be deemed to have waived his right to do so.

Kanu has been in detention since June 2021 following his extraordinary rendition from Kenya. His trial continues to generate widespread national and international attention.