Court Gives Kanu July 18 to Open Defence as FG Rests Terrorism Case

The Federal Government has officially closed its terrorism case against Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), after presenting five witnesses before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, has scheduled July 18 for Kanu to begin his defence.

The final prosecution witness, known only as “EEE” for security reasons, completed his testimony on Thursday. He was cross-examined by Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, representing Kanu. Following the conclusion of this testimony, lead prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, announced the government’s decision to rest its case, citing the volume of evidence and broadcasts allegedly linking Kanu to acts of terrorism.

Reacting to the prosecution’s move, the defence team led by Kanu Agabi, SAN, indicated plans to file a no-case submission, arguing that the government had not directly connected Kanu to any acts of terrorism.

In his testimony, the DSS officer “EEE” said he was tasked with leading a team to investigate the #EndSARS protests and their aftermath between 2020 and 2021, especially in southern Nigeria. He submitted documents listing the destruction of public property and the deaths of security personnel.

The evidence showed that 128 police officers, 37 soldiers, and 10 DSS operatives were killed, while 164 police stations and 19 INEC offices were damaged during that period. These documents were admitted into evidence despite objections from the defence, who reserved the right to challenge them later.

Under cross-examination, the DSS officer admitted he was not directly involved in investigating Kanu’s actions, but claimed the IPOB leader’s broadcasts incited the public to attack security forces and destroy government property. He could not confirm whether the #EndSARS protest was initiated by Kanu or whether individuals like activist Aisha Yesufu were involved due to a lack of direct investigation.

The defence team now has until July 18 to decide whether to proceed with their planned no-case submission or begin calling witnesses in Kanu’s defence.