Abuja, Nigeria — In a dramatic moment in court, pro-democracy activist Omoyele Sowore has assured detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu that he would “be out” once justice is properly served. The exchange occurred during a hearing at the Federal High Court, and followed the filing of a defence strategy by Kanu’s legal team.
Sowore, present outside the courtroom along with other activists, made the comment as journalists crowded to capture proceedings. He said that freedom, accountability and equitable justice are non-negotiable and that he expects due process to prevail in Kanu’s case. Meanwhile, Kanu’s lawyers reported that they had just filed a list of witnesses as part of the defence, signalling that the trial has moved into a new phase.
Observers say the tension underscores the high-profile nature of the case, which has drawn national and international attention because of issues around indigeneity, state power and the rights of minorities. The court hearing was adjourned to Friday, allowing Kanu time to open his formal defence after previously dismissing his legal team, raising questions about continuity of counsel and the pace of the trial.
