JUST IN: Federal High Court Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Bail Application, Cites Legal Prohibitions

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the latest bail application by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing the request as “highly unmeritorious” and barred under Nigerian criminal procedure law. The judge ruled that the court could not entertain an application that effectively sought to stay proceedings in a criminal trial, citing Section 306 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.

Justice Omotosho explained that Kanu’s request did not fall within the recognised categories of bail, such as bail pending trial or appeal, particularly since Kanu had already presented his defence. The court noted that on October 27, 2025, Kanu was ordered to submit his defence or final written address, which was subsequently filed and treated by the court as his final address. “In view of the statutory prohibition and the stage of the proceedings, the relief sought is without merit and is hereby dismissed,” the judge said, adding that all issues raised in Kanu’s submissions would be addressed in the court’s final judgment.

Earlier, Kanu had challenged the court’s authority to try him and questioned the validity of the terrorism charges against him, arguing that the repealed Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act rendered the case unlawful. He asked the court to strike out the charges, nullify the plea entered on his behalf, and order his release. Kanu has also filed a separate suit at the Court of Appeal seeking to halt the judgment, but the appellate court has yet to set a hearing date or issue any order.

Ahead of the ruling, authorities in Abia State, Kanu’s home state, confirmed that security measures were reinforced to prevent any breakdown of law and order.