Garba Mohammed
The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has declined to open his defence in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism, insisting that there is no valid case against him.
At Monday’s resumed hearing, Kanu told the Federal High Court in Abuja that after carefully reviewing the case file, he found no legitimate charge linking him to the offences preferred by the Federal Government.
The development marks a shift from his earlier stance. During the previous sitting on October 24, the IPOB leader had sought the court’s leave to summon witnesses and requested additional time to review the case materials.
However, addressing the court on Monday, Kanu maintained that he would not proceed with any defence since, according to him, “there is no valid charge” and the proceedings amount to an “unlawful trial.”
Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the matter, advised Kanu to formalise his position through a written address, which should also be served on the prosecution. The judge further urged him to seek professional counsel on the implications of refusing to open a defence in a criminal trial.
The court thereafter adjourned the case to November 4, 5, and 6, for the adoption of final written addresses — either based on Kanu’s claim that no case has been established against him or, if he changes course, to enable him present his defence.
The IPOB leader is facing multiple counts bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, and incitement, charges he has consistently denied since his re-arrest and extradition to Nigeria in 2021.
More details are expected as the trial progresses.