The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Kanu is being tried on seven terrorism allegations presented by the federal government.
On Friday, Kanu requested an adjournment from the trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, after informing him that his former legal team, led by former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), had yet to release his case file.
Meanwhile, Kanu had already stated his willingness to launch his defense in a written application to the court, indicating his desire to call witnesses and requesting the issuing of witness summons.
However, at the resumed hearing on Monday, Kanu informed the court that after reading the case file, he concluded that there was no genuine charge against him.
He contended that because he believed the charges were illegal and the prosecution had failed to establish a case, there was no need for him to proceed with his defense.
In response, the trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, ordered Kanu to file a written address formally declaring his stance and to serve the prosecution accordingly.
Justice Omotosho also recommended the IPOB leader engage criminal law professionals to better comprehend the legal ramifications of his action.
The judge then adjourned the case until November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses, based either on Kanu’s stance that no case had been proven against him or on his right to proceed with his defense if he so chose.
Details later…
