Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has given the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, until November 5 to defend the terrorism charges against him or risk waiving his right to do so.
The order followed Kanu’s continued refusal, for the fourth time, to open his defence after the prosecution closed its case and the court rejected his no-case submission.
At Thursday’s hearing, Kanu, who is representing himself, said he would not enter any defence because, according to him, there is “no valid charge known to law” pending against him. He demanded to be released immediately.
Prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) objected, saying Kanu’s new court filings were improper and aimed at delaying the case. He urged the court to treat them as Kanu’s final address and proceed to judgment.
Justice Omotosho, however, ruled that the documents were properly filed and would be considered at judgment. He allowed Kanu more time to consult a lawyer and adjourned till November 5 for him to open his defence or forfeit the right to do so.
