IPOB Rejects Premium Times Report on Nnamdi Kanu’s Alleged Waiver of Defence in Terrorism Trial The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has ...
IPOB Rejects Premium Times Report on Nnamdi Kanu’s Alleged Waiver of Defence in Terrorism Trial
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a strongly worded press statement dated October 27, 2025, denouncing a report by Premium Times that claimed IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu waived his right to defence during his ongoing terrorism trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.The Premium Times article, headlined “Nnamdi Kanu waives defence in terrorism trial – Judge cautions,” was sourced directly from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
IPOB described the report as “false and malicious,” accusing the outlets of distorting courtroom proceedings and serving as “echo chambers for state propaganda.”According to IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, Kanu did not waive his defence.
Instead, he challenged the prosecution to identify the specific law under which he is being tried. During the proceedings, Kanu reportedly asked Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the lead prosecution counsel: “Under what law am I being tried?” IPOB claims the prosecution failed to provide a valid statutory basis for the charges.
The presiding judge, according to the statement, intervened and directed Kanu to formalise his position in writing. IPOB insists the core issue is one of jurisdiction and legality, not a waiver of defence. The group argues that no valid defence can be entered if the charging statute is repealed or legally invalid—a fundamental principle of law.
IPOB further accused Premium Times and NAN of regurgitating “government-fed falsehoods” without verification. The group challenged both outlets to request Chief Awomolo to produce the law authorising Kanu’s prosecution, asserting that until such evidence is provided, claims of a defence waiver remain “fiction.”
The statement urged journalists to prioritise accuracy over manipulation and called on the Nigerian public to demand truth in reporting on Kanu’s case.
The trial continues amid heightened scrutiny over media coverage and legal proceedings.
Family Writers Press International
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