The Federal High Court in Abuja has given the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra Nnamdi Kanu one final chance to open his defence in the terrorism case brought against him by the Federal Government.
The court warned that failure to do so at the next sitting will lead to forfeiture of his right to defend himself.
Kanu who is facing a seven count charge linked to alleged terrorism and activities of the separatist group has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. At the last court session he dismissed his legal team and insisted that he would represent himself, questioning the validity of the charges filed against him.
Justice James Omotosho who presided over the matter stressed that the court would not allow further delays. He explained that Kanu must decide at the next adjourned date whether he wishes to proceed with his defence or allow the court to close his case. The judge stated that if he fails to open his defence the court will move on based on the evidence already provided by the prosecution.
During the proceedings Kanu argued that there was no legal basis for the charges. He maintained that there was “no existing law in this country upon which the prosecution can predicate the charges against me.” His remarks came after he chose to push aside his legal representatives and address the court directly.
The case has continued to attract national and international attention as Kanu’s arrest and extradition from Kenya in 2021 and his agitation for the creation of Biafra have remained sensitive issues in Nigerias political space. His trial has also triggered varied reactions across the South East region where many continue to follow developments closely.
The matter has been adjourned to November 5 for Kanu to either enter his defence or lose the right to do so. The decision of the court on that day is expected to shape the next phase of the long running trial.
