The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday told the Federal High Court in Abuja that he would no longer defend himself in his ongoing terrorism trial, insisting the charges against him are illegal.
At the resumed hearing before Justice James Omotosho, Mr Kanu said he had carefully reviewed the case file and concluded that he had “no case to answer.”
The court had earlier fixed Monday’s sitting for the IPOB leader to open his defence after he complained that his legal documents had not been released to him.
Kanu, through a motion filed on October 21, had initially indicated plans to call 23 witnesses, including prominent individuals, to testify on his behalf. However, during proceedings, he informed the judge that he had reconsidered his position after studying the prosecution’s evidence.
“Having reviewed the case file, I find there is no valid charge against me. This entire process is unlawful,” Kanu told the court.
Following his declaration, Justice Omotosho directed him to file a written address formally stating his position and to serve the same on the prosecution.
The judge also advised Kanu to seek expert legal guidance on the implications of his decision to forgo a defence, stressing that such a step carries serious legal consequences.
Justice Omotosho thereafter adjourned the matter to November 4, 5, and 6, for the adoption of final written addresses, either on the argument that the prosecution failed to establish a case or for the defendant to open his defence if he changes his mind.
Kanu is standing trial for alleged terrorism, incitement, and other offences related to his activities as leader of IPOB, a group proscribed by the Federal Government in 2017.