Federal Court to Announce Decision in Nnamdi Kanu Trial Today

The heat continues from Abuja as the Federal High Court prepares to issue its long-awaited judgment in the terrorism case involving Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The ruling, scheduled for today, Thursday, November 20, at the court premises in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will be delivered by Justice James Omotosho. In a significant move toward transparency, the entire proceeding is expected to be broadcast live on television, allowing Nigerians across the country to follow the development in real time.

This case has remained one of the most closely watched legal battles in recent years. After Nnamdi Kanu’s controversial re-arrest in Kenya in June 2021 and subsequent transfer to Nigeria, the federal government reinstated and intensified the charges against him. His prosecution has since experienced multiple dramatic turns, including heated courtroom exchanges, renewed security measures, and heightened public interest — all of which have shaped the tense atmosphere surrounding today’s judgment.

Bashir Ahmad Backs Live Transmission of Proceedings

Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad has expressed satisfaction with the decision to transmit the judgment live. Posting on X, Ahmad wrote: “I like how the judgment in the trial of the terrorist Nnamdi Kanu is being transmitted live for all Nigerians to follow. So important for us, the citizens, to hear, in real time, the extent of the atrocities committed against the Nigerian state and to understand the gravity of the actions that have brought us to this point.”

His comment sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians acknowledging that a live broadcast could help reduce misinformation, increase transparency, and allow citizens to witness the legal process firsthand. Live Updates on digital platforms have already shown massive public interest as the proceedings move forward.

Justice Omotosho Proceeds with Trial in Kanu’s Absence

At the court today, Justice Omotosho continued hearing the matter even though Kanu was not present inside the courtroom. His absence followed an earlier confrontation in which he was accused of “misconduct.” Despite this, the court, journalists, Kanu’s relatives, and several legal observers were all seated as the judge moved forward with the day’s business.

Nnamdi Kanu Accused of Misconduct

The IPOB leader was earlier said to have engaged in an outburst that disrupted proceedings, leading to accusations of “misconduct.” This development added yet another layer of tension to a case already known for its dramatic twists.

Calm Security Situation in Abuja

With expectations of protests or gatherings, security agencies deployed a joint team around the court environment. However, Live Updates from Channels TV indicated that the surroundings remained calm, and no disruptive activity was recorded. Normal business continued in nearby streets as security personnel maintained a watchful presence.

Judge Orders Kanu’s Removal from Court

Reports from Vanguard noted that Justice Omotosho ordered security agents to escort Kanu out of the courtroom after he insisted that no judgment would be delivered regarding the charges filed against him by the federal government. His refusal to accept the court’s authority contributed to his removal.

Kanu Challenges Court’s Jurisdiction

While addressing the court earlier, Kanu maintained that the Federal High Court “lacks jurisdiction to try me.” He argued that there was “no judgment” to be delivered because he had already filed relevant legal processes at the Court of Appeal. His legal stance remains one of the core arguments his defense has consistently raised.

Federal Republic of Nigeria vs Nnamdi Kanu Called Up

As proceedings resumed, the case titled Federal Republic of Nigeria versus Nnamdi Kanu was formally convened. Justice Omotosho noted that before delivering his ruling, he would give Kanu the opportunity to present all pending motions filed since the last adjourned date.