The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday, stunned the Federal High Court in Abuja as he abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism.
Kanu, who is facing seven counts of terrorism filed by the Federal Government, told the trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, that upon reviewing his case file, he was convinced that no valid charge existed against him.
The development came barely days after Kanu had sought an adjournment, explaining that his former legal team, led by ex-Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), had yet to release his case file to his new defence team.
Initially, Kanu had written to the court expressing readiness to open his defence and calling for the issuance of witness summons. However, at the resumed hearing on Monday, he made a U-turn, insisting that the prosecution had failed to establish any case worthy of defence.
“Upon a thorough review of the case file, I have concluded there is no valid charge against me,” Kanu reportedly told the court.
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Responding, Justice Omotosho directed Kanu to file a written address formally stating his position and serve the prosecution accordingly. The judge also advised the IPOB leader to consult experts in criminal law to fully understand the implications of his stance.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses, which may determine whether the court will uphold Kanu’s claim of “no case” or require him to proceed with his defence.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since his controversial arrest and extradition to Nigeria in 2021. He is accused of terrorism-related offences linked to IPOB’s secessionist activities — charges he has consistently denied, arguing that his agitation for Biafra is lawful and peaceful.
The upcoming court sessions are expected to be decisive in the long-running trial, as Kanu’s refusal to call witnesses may significantly shape the final judgment on whether the prosecution indeed established a prima facie case against him.
Details later…
