Kanu Drops Defence Plan, Moves To End Trial On No-Case Submission

The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Kanu is standing trial on seven counts bordering on terrorism, brought against him by the Federal Government.

At the previous sitting on Friday, Kanu had sought an adjournment, informing the court that his former legal team, led by ex-Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), had yet to release his case file to him.

He had earlier expressed readiness to open his defence in a written application, indicating his intention to call witnesses and requesting the issuance of witness summons.

However, at the resumed hearing on Monday, Kanu told the court that upon reviewing the case file, he had concluded that there was no valid charge against him.

He argued that the prosecution had failed to establish any case, insisting that it would be unnecessary to proceed with his defence.

In response, trial judge Justice James Omotosho directed Kanu to file a written address formally stating his position and to serve the prosecution accordingly.

The judge also advised the IPOB leader to consult criminal law experts to understand the possible legal implications of his decision.

Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the matter to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses — either on Kanu’s no-case submission or, should he reconsider, for him to proceed with his defence.