Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has reduced the number of observers permitted to attend the resumed trial of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, from over 30 applicants to 20, excluding activist and politician Omoyele Sowore.
The decision comes as Kanu’s trial on a seven-count terrorism charge resumes today, with the court implementing stricter entry protocols. Sources revealed that only individuals listed on the court-approved observer list—which mainly includes close family members of Kanu—will be granted access to the courtroom.
According to court directives, all approved observers must be seated before 9 a.m. for the proceedings to commence.
Sowore, who is the convener of the “Take It Back Movement,” was among those who had applied to observe the high-profile trial but was noticeably absent from the final list released by the court.
Meanwhile, Kanu’s legal representation is expected to be bolstered, as five Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) have indicated their intention to join the defence team. These include Prof. Onyechi Ikpeazu, Emeka Etiaba, Mela Audu, Dr. Joseph Akubo, and Audu Nunghe, in addition to existing counsels Chief Kanu Agabi and Uchenna Njoku.
At the previous hearing, Justice Omotosho had granted a request for an accelerated trial, reaffirming the court’s commitment to expeditiously address the terrorism allegations brought against the IPOB leader.
The development underscores heightened legal and security sensitivity surrounding the trial, which continues to draw significant public and political attention.
