By CHARLES IWUOHA

Ndigbo in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja have warned Justice James Omotoso over ongoing trial of the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Justice Omotoso had last week, fixed November 20 for the final ruling on the matter.

But this is wrong, Ndigbo FCT said in a statement issued on Tuesday by the President-General, Igbo Community Association in FCT, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, and Secretary General, Emmanuel Chinwoke Ohah.

According to the statement, the decision by Justice Omotoso to give judgment on November 20 against Nnamdi Kanu will potentially ignite another crisis in Nigeria.

The group said Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has yet to present his defense and it would be unfair to judge a defendant who has yet to present his defense.

"It is clear to the people of Nigeria that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was illegally abducted from Kenya and brought to Nigeria and detained for four [4] years for a crime he has not been found guilty for,” Ndigbo FCT said.

The association appealed to President Bola Tinubu to prevail on Justice Omotoso to approach the situation with wisdom and extreme caution.

"Nigeria cannot be allowed to undergo another unrest amidst a growing anxiety over President Donald Trump's designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern [CPC].

"President Tinubu should listen to the voices of the masses who are calling for a political solution to the Mazi Nnamdi Kanu matter. As a Democrat, it is the most suitable path to follow to reach lasting solution,” the association said.

It called on President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu “and end the growing quagmire.”

"The South East and Igbo-speaking regions of Nigeria need a return to peace. Too many lives and properties have been lost and destroyed. The region needs a return to sanity.

"Let us not allow November 20, 2025 to turn to a lightning rod for Nigerians. Give Nnamdi Kanu Justice and free him. Together, we can make Nigeria a peaceful place to live in,” the association said.