Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has given Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), until November 5 to open his defence in the terrorism case against him or lose his right to do so.
The judge issued the directive after Kanu failed, for the fourth consecutive day, to begin his defence following the prosecution’s closure of its case and the court’s rejection of his no-case submission.
At Tuesday’s proceedings, Kanu—who is representing himself—told the court that he had not filed the final written address as ordered but had instead submitted a motion and supporting affidavit. He insisted there was “no valid charge known to law” pending against him and demanded to be released immediately.
Prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) challenged the competence of Kanu’s filings and accused the defendant of attempting to delay proceedings. Awomolo urged the court to treat the new filings as Kanu’s final written address and proceed to judgment.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that the documents were properly filed and would be considered during judgment. He noted that since Kanu is not a lawyer, he should be given the opportunity to consult legal counsel.
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The case was adjourned to November 5, when Kanu is expected to either open his defence or be deemed to have waived his right to do so.
