Abuja, Nigeria – May 29, 2025 – In a significant development for the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Omotosho, today ruled in favor of Kanu in the “trial-within-trial.” This ruling effectively rejects all video and written statements previously presented by the prosecuting team.

Justice Omotosho’s decision stems from the court’s finding that the defendant’s statements were obtained under duress and in the absence of his legal representative. Consequently, these pieces of evidence are now deemed inadmissible and no longer relevant to the substantive case against the IPOB leader.

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The “trial-within-trial” was initiated to determine the voluntariness of statements made by Kanu, a crucial aspect of his defense. Kanu had previously alleged that he was subjected to mistreatment and threats during his interrogation by the Department of State Services (DSS) following his arrest. The prosecution, on its part, had argued that Kanu’s statements were made voluntarily and under “presidential treatment.”

Today’s ruling marks a significant victory for Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team and could have substantial implications for the remainder of the terrorism and treasonable felony charges he faces. The court’s dismissal of the contested evidence is expected to reshape the prosecution’s strategy as the trial continues. Further details regarding the next steps in the trial are anticipated.