Dramatic scenes unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday as Justice John Omotosho ordered security operatives to remove the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, from the courtroom following a heated confrontation after his bail application was dismissed.
The courtroom, filled with lawyers, supporters, and journalists, was thrown into chaos moments after the judge delivered his ruling on Kanu’s fresh bail request. Justice Omotosho dismissed the application, stating: “Most of the issues raised by Kanu today have been raised severally in this same court in previous applications. The application does not fall under the category for which bail may be granted either pending trial or pending appeal.” The judge further noted that all preliminary issues would be addressed at the point of final judgment, recalling his earlier order of October 27th, 2025, for Kanu to file his final written address or enter his defence.
In response, Kanu’s counsel argued that the prosecution had not filed a counter-affidavit, and thus, the facts in the motion ought to be deemed uncontested. Kanu himself, visibly agitated, insisted on the right to file his final address as a matter of law. Raising his voice, Kanu argued passionately: “You must listen to me,” as he demanded recognition of his rights in court.
Justice Omotosho, seeking to restore order, told security personnel to take Kanu out of the courtroom. The intervention by security operatives escalated the tension, with supporters murmuring and lawyers looking on in disbelief as Kanu continued to protest his treatment.
Citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the judge held that the request for a stay of proceedings could not be entertained, as Section 306 of the Act expressly prohibits such applications in criminal trials. He reaffirmed: “This court is bound by its earlier order. All preliminary objections should be taken with the main judgment.”
Kanu’s legal journey, fraught with multiple appeals, adjournments, and the recurring dismissal of bail applications, continues to attract nationwide attention. As this latest courtroom incident demonstrates, the case remains as contentious as ever, with both the judiciary and security agencies under intense scrutiny as Nigeria awaits a final resolution to the long-running trial.
