The Federal High Court in Abuja has once again urged Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to open his defence in the ongoing trial over alleged terrorism offences.
Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the case on Tuesday, cautioned Kanu on the implications of refusing to enter his defence and advised him to seek legal counsel for proper guidance.
The appeal came after Kanu maintained that there was no valid charge against him, insisting that he could not be tried under a repealed law.
Kanu, who appeared in court in person, told Justice Omotosho that the charges against him were invalid and that the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling through Justice Lawal Garba had not been implemented in his case.
“My lord, the very charge upon which the entire ruling was based does not exist. Even as I came to this court today, there is no charge against me,” Kanu told the court.
Prosecution counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), informed the court that the defence had on Friday served them a motion on notice, which he described as “a piece of paper” lacking the required court stamp and revenue signature.
Awomolo argued that such an unsigned document held no legal value and reminded the court that the prosecution had already addressed all issues raised by Kanu, including those on the repealed law and extraordinary rendition, in its final written address.
Court Grants Kanu More Time To Enter Defence
He urged the court to adopt the prosecution’s final written address and proceed to fix a date for judgement.
However, Justice Omotosho said he would grant Kanu more time to consult legal experts before entering his defence, emphasising the need for a fair hearing.
He noted that the Supreme Court had returned the case for retrial, meaning the IPOB leader was expected to face trial.
READ ALSO: Kanu Declines to Open Defence, Insists No Case Against Him
The judge warned that if Kanu failed to open his defence on November 5, he would be deemed to have waived his right to do so.
Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter until November 5 for the defendant to open his defence.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the court had earlier adjourned the case on October 27 to November 4 for Kanu to either file his final written address or begin his defence.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
