22/05/2025
MAY 22, 2025
FEDERAL HIGH COURT ABUJA
UPDATES:
Key Highlights from Today’s Court Session on Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial – May 22, 2025 As
The Federal High Court resumed proceedings today in the trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu (MNK), the detained leader of IPOB. The courtroom was filled with senior legal practitioners and intense exchanges between the prosecution, defense, and the presiding judge.
Legal Representation for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu:
MNK’s formidable legal team includes:
Kanu Agabi (SAN)
Paul Erokoro (SAN)
Ikeazor Akaraiwe
Joseph Akubor
Uchenna Njoku
Aloy Ejimakor
Ifeanyi Ejiofor
P.K. Obi
Max Opara
Chika Odoemena
Mandela Ume
Mary Frances Orji
Emmanuel Agabi
Godwin Egem
Judge’s Position:
The Judge expressed strong dissatisfaction with the pace of the trial. He stated:
"This case is under accelerated hearing. The defendant has been in detention for too long, and I want this matter concluded quickly. The court will soon go on vacation, and we cannot allow the accused to remain in custody indefinitely."
The Judge then gave the prosecution six days to present all their witnesses, warning:
“Whether they are 500 or more, call them within the 6-day window. If you fail, I will close your case and proceed to the defense.”
Cross Examination of Prosecution Witness No. 2:
Key takeaways from the session include:
International Passport & Travel:
Q: Did the defendant’s international passport remain in your custody?
A: I don’t know.
Q: Has the defendant traveled abroad?
A: He told me he has been to many countries.
Evidence and Broadcasts:
Q: Was the broadcast you presented made in Nigeria?
A: I don’t know.
Q: Is “Biafra” a proscribed name?
A: I don’t know. I only know IPOB is proscribed.
Investigation & Documents:
The witness admitted he never took any statement from the defendant and could not produce any investigation report.
When asked for evidence of crimes, he repeatedly said: “I don’t have it,” or “The government has it.”
On ESN & Arms:
Q: Did you see anyone carrying arms in the video presented?
A: I don’t know, arms can be concealed.
Q: How did you identify ESN in the video?
A: I just identified them, no confirmation.
On IPOB & Government Role:
Q: Before IPOB was proscribed, was it illegal?
A: No, it wasn’t.
Q: Are all IPOB members criminals?
A: Only those who commit crimes.
Q: Did you investigate IPOB members?
A: No.
Q: Has the government provided enough security to the people?
A: To the best of my knowledge, yes.
Video Exhibits and Flash Drive Evidence:
The defense presented several video clips, which were admitted and played in court:
Clip 1: A man saying:
“If you are depending on the police for protection, you will all die.”
Q: Is this your DG?
A: No.
Clip 2: A man calls on communities to arm themselves and fight Boko Haram.
Witness: Identified him as Oluwatosin Ajayi, his DG.
Q: Did he encourage self-defense?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you agree with his message?
A: Yes.
Clip 3: A man (later identified as Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma) says:
“If anyone says it’s IPOB killing people in Orlu, they are wrong. The killings are politically motivated.”
Q: But yesterday, you said the Governor blamed IPOB.
A: The Governor didn’t mention names.
Clip 4: General TY Danjuma seen saying:
“If you are waiting for the police to protect you, you will all die. Everyone should carry arms.”
Q: Was he arrested for saying this?
A: I’m not aware.
Further Cross-Examination Highlights:
Q: What’s the difference between Amotekun and ESN?
A: Amotekun is legally recognized; ESN is not.
Q: Is IPOB into politics?
A: I’m not sure.
Q: Do you have proof of the defendant ordering crimes?
A: No, other witnesses will present that.
Witness No. 2 was then discharged.
Prosecution’s Delay:
The prosecution admitted their next witness was not ready and requested more time.
Judge’s Final Remarks:
“Pick six days between now and the next two weeks. If you don’t deliver, I will strike out your case for being weak and move on. Reduce your witnesses, we cannot continue like this.”
Next Court Dates:
May: 28th & 29th
June: 6th, 16th, 18th, and 19th – 2025
Credit Favour Michael Kanu
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