Hours after protests in Abuja calling for his release, IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu told the Federal High Court he is ready to begin his defence. Previously on 16 October, he filed a preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction; a medical panel had also declared him fit to stand trial.
In a fresh motion filed on 21 October, Kanu said he intends to call 23 witnesses, divided into two categories: “ordinary but material” and “vital and compellable” under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.
Among the high‑profile names listed as compellable are Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), former Minister of Defence, Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, Babajide Sanwo‑Olu, Governor of Lagos State, Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT, Dave Umahi, Minister of Works and Abubakar Malami, SAN, former Attorney‑General of the Federation.
Kanu requested a 90‑day timeframe to complete his defence in light of the number of witnesses.
He emphasised his commitment to testify personally and provide sworn statements, stressing that “justice is not only done but manifestly seen to have been done.”
On the same day, a magistrate court in Abuja remanded 13 individuals including his special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor arrested after the protest, and adjourned their arraignment until 24 October.
