Mazi Nnamdi Kanu Challenges Legality of Charges, Demands Immediate Release in Court
By Passman Akpos
Abuja, Nigeria — Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, on Tuesday, made a bold declaration during his court appearance at the Federal High Court in Abuja, insisting that there is no valid legal basis for the charges brought against him by the Federal Government.
Addressing the court, Kanu said:
> “Before this court, you must surmount the legal thresholds I have raised prior to requesting that I proceed with my defense. You cannot ask me to open my defense when you are unable to specify under which law I am being charged. A review of the records from this court reveals that there is no law supporting the charges against me. Consequently, I request that this court release me. Your Lordship, I implore you to take judicial notice of all records within this court.”
The IPOB leader’s statement, which has since sparked renewed debate across social media under the hashtag #FreeMaziNnamdiKanuNow, underscores his long-standing contention that his detention and trial are politically motivated and legally unfounded.
Observers at the court noted that Kanu spoke with composure and conviction, urging the presiding judge to uphold the rule of law and review the proceedings to date.
Kanu has been in detention since his controversial re-arrest and extradition to Nigeria in 2021. Despite multiple rulings by appellate courts ordering his release, the Federal Government has continued to hold him, citing ongoing security concerns and pending legal issues.
As the proceedings continue, supporters of the IPOB leader have renewed calls for his unconditional release, while legal analysts say his argument raises significant questions about due process and constitutional adherence in the ongoing trial.
