The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has cautioned detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, that he risks losing his right to defend himself if he fails to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial.
Justice James Omotosho issued the warning on Tuesday after Kanu again refused to begin his defence, marking the fourth time he has failed to comply since the prosecution closed its case and his no-case submission was dismissed.
The judge ruled that if Kanu fails to open his defence on November 5, the court will consider him to have waived his right to do so.
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At the resumed hearing, Kanu (who is representing himself after dismissing his legal team) told the court that he would not enter any defence, insisting there were no valid charges against him. He demanded to be released immediately, saying he should not be detained over what he described as “nonexistent” allegations.
However, prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), urged the court not to entertain further delays, arguing that Kanu’s actions were merely aimed at stalling proceedings. He asked the court to treat Kanu’s latest filings as his final written address and proceed to judgement.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that the new documents filed by Kanu were valid and would be considered at judgement. He added that since Kanu is not a lawyer, he should be allowed the opportunity to seek proper legal advice before proceeding.
The case was adjourned until November 5 for the defendant to open his defence or risk forfeiting his right to do so.
