Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seven days to file his final written address in his ongoing trial on alleged terrorism offences.
The judge granted the request on Monday after Kanu declined to open his defence, following the court’s earlier rejection of his no-case submission.
Kanu Insists There Is No Valid Charge
Kanu, who recently dismissed his legal team led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Chief Kanu Agabi, chose to represent himself in court. He told the court he would not enter a defence, arguing that there was no existing law under which the charges against him could be sustained.
“There is no case against me. It would be futile for me to enter a defence,” Kanu said.
The IPOB leader had earlier notified the court of his intention to call 23 witnesses, including Nigerians and foreigners, divided into “ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable” witnesses under Section 232 of the Evidence Act 2011. He had also requested 90 days to prepare his defence.
However, after dismissing his lawyers, Kanu told the court he would defend himself, but later said he could not proceed because his case files had not been handed over by his former legal team.
Judge Explains Legal Options
Justice Omotosho explained that under criminal procedure, a defendant has three options after the prosecution closes its case:
File a no-case submission;
Open a defence; or
Decline to present a defence and rely on the prosecution’s case but file a written address.
The judge reminded Kanu that his no-case submission had already been dismissed and that the ruling still stood.
Prosecution Calls for Judgment
Lead prosecuting counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, argued that Kanu’s position amounted to resting his case on points of law.
“We led evidence, and he cross-examined our witnesses. Now that he says he has no defence, the case has been brought to a close,” he said, urging the court to proceed to judgment.
Judge Grants Adjournment, Urges Legal Advice
Justice Omotosho granted Kanu’s request for time to file a written address but strongly advised him to seek professional legal consultation.
“I am begging you in the name of God Almighty to consult properly,” he said, emphasising the seriousness of criminal proceedings.
The court directed Kanu to file and serve his written address within four days, to allow the prosecution time to respond.
Next Hearing Date
The case was adjourned to 4, 5, and 6 November for the adoption of written addresses or for Kanu to open his defence if he changes his mind.
