Nnamdi Kanu Refuses to Open Defence, Says Prosecution Failed to Establish Case
The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial before the Federal High Court, Abuja, where he faces charges bordering on terrorism.
At the last sitting on 24 October, the court adjourned to 27 October for the defendant to open his defence. Kanu had previously filed an application for witness summons, indicating his intention to call several witnesses, and also sought additional time to review his case file.
However, when proceedings resumed, Kanu informed the court that, having carefully examined the case file, he was convinced that no valid charge had been established against him. He therefore maintained that there was no basis to present a defence, insisting that the prosecution had failed to make out a prima facie case.
In response, Justice James Omotosho directed the defendant to file a formal written address articulating his position and to serve same on the prosecution. His Lordship further advised Kanu to seek the guidance of criminal law practitioners on the legal implications of the course he had chosen.
The matter has been adjourned to 4th, 5th, and 6th November for the adoption of final written addresses. The adjournment follows the defendant’s insistence that the evidence adduced by the prosecution does not disclose any offence known to law, thereby raising the issue of whether he has a case to answer.
