The Federal High Court in Abuja has again denied entry to activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, from attending the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The decision was reportedly based on the excuse of limited courtroom capacity.
Kanu’s trial, fixed for Friday, July 18, has continued to draw widespread public attention. Earlier in the week, a list of 20 individuals, including Sowore, was submitted for clearance to observe the proceedings. However, by Wednesday, the court announced through the judge’s chambers that only 10 persons would be allowed inside due to space constraints.
Consequently, several names—including Sowore’s and some defence lawyers’—were removed from the list. Only Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) and a few others were approved to be present for the proceedings.
Meanwhile, during the last court sitting on June 19, the federal government closed its case against Kanu. The prosecution, headed by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), wrapped up after its fifth witness completed testimony.
Kanu’s lead defence counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), then told the court that the defence team intended to file a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had not established a solid case against Kanu.
In response, Justice James Omotosho granted the defence 14 days to submit their written arguments. The prosecution was given another 14 days to file a counter-response. The case was subsequently adjourned to July 18 for continuation.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in custody since 2021 and faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony. The government alleges he made inflammatory remarks and took actions that incited violence and threatened the country’s unity.
His prolonged detention has continued to stir local and international criticism. Rights organisations and his supporters insist the government is cracking down on political dissent and violating Kanu’s fundamental rights.
Sowore Repeatedly Barred From Kanu’s Court Hearings
This is not the first time Sowore has been stopped from attending Kanu’s trial.
On December 15, 2023, he revealed that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) barred him from entering the Supreme Court to witness a ruling related to Kanu. He said DSS officers prevented his vehicle from entering and reportedly shouted, “No access for Sowore.” He later shared details of the incident on social media, accusing the authorities of witch-hunting Kanu and those showing support.
Similarly, on October 21, 2021, Sowore was blocked from accessing the Federal High Court by DSS officials and police officers. He had gone to the court to observe Kanu’s trial and also follow up on his own pending case involving treason allegations.
Sowore, speaking at the time, condemned the action, asserting that courtrooms are meant to be public spaces open to all citizens.
Earlier, on July 26, 2021, Sowore was arrested on the premises of the Federal High Court in Abuja during one of Kanu’s court sessions. He was picked up by security agents under heavy surveillance. That day, journalists and members of the public were also denied access unless they had prior accreditation.
Join Our WhatsApp Channel for More Updates:
👉 https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VabITrvEAKW7DSkTfP0J