The Federal High Court in Abuja has given Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), until Tuesday, November 5, to present his defence in the ongoing case against him or forfeit his right to do so.

Justice James Omotosho issued the order after Kanu failed to open his defence despite several opportunities. The judge warned that if the IPOB leader does not defend himself at the next sitting, the court will assume he has chosen not to do so.

Kanu, who has been representing himself since his lawyers withdrew from the case, told the court he would not defend himself, arguing that there is no valid charge against him. He said he had filed a motion and an affidavit instead of a written address as required by the court.

The prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adegboyega Awomolo, objected to the documents Kanu submitted, claiming they were not properly filed. However, the judge ruled that the documents would be accepted and reviewed at the judgment stage.

Justice Omotosho also advised Kanu to seek legal assistance so he can understand the consequences of his decision not to defend himself.

The court adjourned the case to November 5, 2025, for Kanu to either present his defence or lose the right permanently.