Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has given Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), until November 5 to defend himself against terrorism-related charges or risk losing his right to do so.
The directive came after Kanu, for the fourth consecutive day, failed to present his defense following the prosecution’s closure of its case and the court’s rejection of his no-case submission. Justice Omotosho stated that if Kanu refuses to open his defense on the next adjourned date, the court would consider him to have waived his right to respond to the charges.
Earlier, the court had adjourned the case on October 27, granting Kanu the opportunity to either file his final written address or begin his defense by November 4. During the resumed proceedings, however, Kanu—who has chosen to represent himself—informed the court that he had not filed the ordered written address but had instead submitted a motion and a supporting affidavit.
Kanu maintained that he would not present any defense, arguing that there were “no valid charges” recognized by any existing law against him. He further demanded his immediate release, insisting that his continued detention was unlawful since, according to him, there was no legitimate basis for his trial.
Responding to Kanu’s claims, prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) criticized the new documents Kanu filed, describing them as improperly submitted. Awomolo accused the IPOB leader of deliberately delaying proceedings and urged the court to treat the recent filings as his final written address. He requested that both parties be directed to adopt their final addresses and for the case to be set for judgment.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that Kanu’s newly filed documents were admissible and would be reviewed during judgment. Acknowledging that Kanu is not a trained lawyer, the judge emphasized that the court would allow him reasonable time to seek legal advice and assistance before proceeding further.
The court subsequently adjourned the case to November 5, warning that failure to open his defense on that date would mean Kanu has forfeited his right to do so.
What You Should Know
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), faces multiple charges including terrorism and incitement related to the group’s secessionist activities. His trial has faced several delays, with Kanu often challenging the validity of the charges and the legality of his detention.
The Federal High Court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, has now given him a final opportunity to present his defense. If he fails to comply by November 5, the court will consider his right to defend himself waived and proceed toward judgment.
The case continues to draw national and international attention due to its political and human rights implications.
