Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has dropped his initial plan to call top government officials as witnesses in his terrorism trial.
The trial, which was adjourned on October 24 to enable him open his defence on October 27, had earlier included a list of proposed witnesses such as Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; and former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.
However, when the case resumed on Monday, Kanu told the court that after reviewing the case file, he found no valid charges against him. He argued that since he believes the trial is unlawful and the charges are baseless, he sees no reason to present any defence or call witnesses.
Justice James Omotosho then directed Kanu to file a formal written address outlining his position and serve it to the prosecution. The judge also advised him to seek legal guidance on the implications of his decision.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses, either based on Kanu’s claim that no case has been established against him or for him to proceed with his defence if necessary.
Nnamdi Kanu was first arrested in 2015 on terrorism charges. He fled the country in 2017 after a military operation at his residence, leading to the revocation of his bail and an order for his re-arrest in 2019. He was later rearrested in 2021. Although the Appeal Court discharged him in 2022, the Supreme Court reversed the decision in 2023, allowing the trial to continue.
