Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has abandoned his plan to open his defence in the ongoing terrorism trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja, insisting instead that the Federal Government has no case against him.
Kanu, who is facing seven counts of terrorism-related offences, told the court on Monday that after reviewing his case file, he concluded that the charges were baseless and unlawful.
The IPOB leader had previously signalled his readiness to present witnesses and had asked the court to issue witness summons. However, during Monday’s proceedings, Kanu reversed course, telling Justice James Omotosho that the prosecution had failed to establish any valid case against him.
“Upon reviewing the case file, I found there is no valid charge. The prosecution has failed to prove anything against me,” Kanu reportedly told the court.
Justice Omotosho directed Kanu to file a formal written address stating his no-case submission and serve the Federal Government accordingly.
The judge also advised the separatist leader to consult with experts in criminal law to understand the legal consequences of his decision.
The matter was subsequently adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses, either in support of Kanu’s no-case argument or, should he change his stance, for the opening of his defence.
Kanu had last week asked for an adjournment, citing the refusal of his former legal team led by ex-Attorney-General of the Federation Kanu Agabi (SAN) to release his case file to him.
The court will next decide whether the IPOB leader’s argument that the charges are invalid holds weight — a ruling that could determine whether the trial proceeds or ends in his favour.
