Separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu filed a motion at Nigeria’s Supreme Court on November 13, 2025, to halt his terrorism trial. His legal team argues the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act lacks validity under current law.
Kanu personally submitted the documents, contending that prosecutors brought charges under an obsolete statute. Meanwhile, the Federal High Court set a judgment date for November 20, just days away.
Kanu claims that proceeding under repealed legislation denies him fair trial rights. The Supreme Court acknowledged his motion and risks it could suspend upcoming judgment.
Justice James Omotosho scheduled the Federal High Court hearing for November 20, after refusing to extend his defence period.
Moreover, analysts warn the motion by Kanu may heighten tensions in the southeast and prolong legal uncertainty. Civil rights groups called for transparency and adherence to due-process amid the high-stakes case.
With Nnamdi Kanu now actively challenging the trial’s legitimacy, observers say the outcome could reshape legal standards for terrorism prosecutions in Nigeria.
