Mazi Nnamdi Kanu Abandons Witnesses, Declares “No-Case-to-Answer” as Court Sets New Date for Final Address

 

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu Abandons Witnesses, Declares “No-Case-to-Answer” as Court Sets New Date for Final Address

By Edidem Unwana | BRGIE Correspondent, Abuja

Introduction

In a dramatic turn in the long-running trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, proceedings at the Federal High Court Abuja took a decisive shift today, October 27 2025. The court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, witnessed a strategic move from the defense, signaling a new legal direction that could alter the course of the high-profile case.

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu Abandons Witnesses

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who had earlier listed 23 witnesses including foreign nationals and prominent Nigerians, announced to the court that he would no longer call any witnesses. Instead, he declared that the prosecution had failed to establish any case that warranted a defense.
He maintained that the evidence presented by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the prosecution team did not meet the burden of proof required by law, insisting that “there is no valid case against me.”

This development followed several adjournments, including the one on October 24, when Mazi Nnamdi Kanu informed the court that his former lawyers had not handed over his case file, stalling the preparation of his defense. 

Court’s Directive and Next Steps

Justice Omotosho directed the defendant to file a written address outlining his no-case submission. The court fixed November 4, 5, and 6 2025 for the adoption of final written addresses, during which both sides will make their concluding arguments.

If the court upholds Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s no-case submission, it could result in his discharge and acquittal without needing to call further witnesses. However, if dismissed, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu would be compelled to open his full defense and present witnesses as initially planned. 

Fresh Suit Filed Against the Federal Government

In a parallel legal maneuver, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu filed a fresh lawsuit against the Federal Government of Nigeria, seeking the termination of his continued detention and trial.

The suit raises serious claims including:

• Contempt of court over alleged violations of an appellate ruling,

• Denial of fair hearing,

• Use of falsified medical documents by state agencies, and

• Lack of jurisdiction in the terrorism-related charges.

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team asserts that the continued prosecution contradicts earlier judicial findings on his extraordinary rendition from Kenya in 2021 — an issue still before higher courts.

Health and Detention Concerns

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) panel’s report on Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s health and detention conditions also contributed to prior delays. The defense maintains that his health is deteriorating in DSS custody, demanding that he be allowed independent medical care in line with court orders.

Reactions and Implications

Observers say Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s latest strategy shows renewed confidence that the state’s case lacks credible evidence. His supporters have described the move as “a final legal offensive against judicial persecution”.

Government sources, however, insist that the case remains a matter of national security, alleging that IPOB’s activities have threatened Nigeria’s unity.

Outlook

The next court sessions — November 4 to 6 — will determine whether the trial proceeds to defense stage or concludes with a “no-case” verdict.
Legal analysts believe this could be the turning point in one of Nigeria’s most politically sensitive trials of the decade.

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References:

1. Reuters – Nigeria court adjourns separatist Kanu's terrorism trial

2. All Africa – Kanu’s “no-case” stance and court directive

3. Vanguard – Kanu files fresh suit against FG

4. Icons News – Court update, witness list