Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has refused to begin his defence in the ongoing terrorism trial against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
At Monday’s court session, Kanu, who dismissed his legal team and chose to represent himself, told the court that he had carefully reviewed his case file and found no valid charge against him.
He maintained that there was no legal basis under Nigerian law for the charges brought by the federal government and asked the court to either release him or grant him bail.
Presiding Judge James Omotosho, however, explained the next legal steps to Kanu. He said that after the prosecution closes its case in a criminal trial, the defendant has three options — to file a no-case submission, to proceed with a defence if the no-case submission fails, or to rely on the prosecution’s evidence.
The judge advised Kanu to seek the guidance of experienced criminal lawyers before making a final decision, warning that choosing not to defend himself could have serious consequences.Despite the court’s explanation, Kanu maintained that he would not enter any defence since he believes there is no standing charge against him.
He also argued that his continued detention was based on what he called a “fraudulent” case, noting that the Supreme Court had already ruled against some aspects of his prosecution.
The prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, informed the court that since Kanu had refused to open his defence, it meant he was relying entirely on the prosecution’s case. He asked the court to fix a date for judgment.
However, the judge said that because Kanu is not a lawyer and is representing himself, he would grant him one more opportunity to consult legal experts. Omotosho stated that it was his duty to ensure the defendant fully understands the process and that fairness is maintained throughout the trial.
The court then adjourned the case until November 4, 5, and 6 to allow Kanu to either present his defence or maintain his position.
Omotosho ruled that if Kanu fails to open his case by the adjourned date, the court will proceed to receive the final written addresses and treat the matter as closed, with the defendant relying on the prosecution’s case.