A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted a final opportunity to the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial.
Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the matter, said it was his duty to guide the defendant, who is not a lawyer, and to ensure he is given enough time to present his defence.
“We had adjourned till today (November 5) for the defendant to put in his defence or be deemed closed. But I am bound to give him another opportunity. If he does not, I will deem him closed,” the judge said.
He directed the Department of State Services (DSS) to grant Kanu access to his legal consultants to enable him prepare for his defence, which is to commence on November 7.
The ruling followed an application by the prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), who asked the court to foreclose Kanu’s right to defence after the defendant spent five out of the six days allocated for his presentation without doing so.
At the start of proceedings, the judge reminded Kanu that the matter was fixed for him to decide whether to hire a lawyer or proceed with his defence personally.
Kanu told the court he had issues that could “embarrass the Judiciary” and requested a private meeting with the judge and the prosecution. Justice Omotosho declined the request, insisting that all matters be discussed openly in court.
The IPOB leader later informed the court that he intended to file some documents and requested to meet with his former lawyers — Kanu Agabi (SAN), P.A.N. Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Maxwell Opara, and Mandela Umegburu — who were present in court as consultants.
Reading from a prepared document, Kanu argued that the charge against him was invalid because it was allegedly based on repealed laws.
“I will enter my defence, but I must know the law under which I am being tried to enable me prepare. I was deceived into pleading to a charge that does not exist, which violates my right to a fair hearing,” Kanu said.
In response, Awomolo maintained that Kanu had failed to comply with the court’s directive to begin his defence, describing his conduct as disobedience to a valid order. He urged the court to foreclose the defence and proceed to judgment.
Justice Omotosho, however, restated his decision to give Kanu one last opportunity to open his defence, advising him to seek expert guidance from qualified criminal law practitioners.
“Criminal procedure is not an area for those without experience to dabble into,” the judge said. “Before man and God, I am here to guide you properly. Keep your gun powder dry.”
The judge also cautioned Kanu’s consultants against making public comments or social media posts related to the case, following complaints from the prosecution.
The case was adjourned to November 7, 2025, for the continuation of the defence.
Post comments (0)