The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that he is ready to defend himself in the ongoing case against him.
Kanu, who is facing terrorism-related charges, personally filed a new motion on Tuesday, October 21, stating his readiness to begin defence in line with the court’s earlier order.
This decision came shortly after protests demanding his release were staged in Abuja by activists led by Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate.
In the motion, Kanu revealed his intention to call 23 witnesses, including high-profile individuals such as former Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Danjuma (retd.), former Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Buratai (retd.), Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
Others on the list include former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, among others whose names were not disclosed.
Kanu told the court he would testify in his defence and provide an account of his actions and statements, which he described as political rather than criminal. He also requested 90 days to complete his defence due to the number of witnesses involved.
Meanwhile, on the same day, a magistrate court in Abuja ordered the remand of Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others arrested during protests calling for his release.
The group was charged with conspiracy, disobedience to lawful order, and public disturbance under sections 152, 114, and 113 of the Penal Code.They were ordered to be held at Kuje Correctional Centre pending their arraignment on October 24.