Nnamdi Kanu Drops Plan to Call Witnesses in Ongoing Terrorism Trial

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

Kanu, who is facing a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism filed by the Federal Government, had previously written to the court expressing his intention to call witnesses in his defence. He also applied for a witness summons after dismissing his legal team led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).

However, during Monday’s resumed hearing, October 27, the IPOB leader informed the court that after reviewing his case file, he was convinced that there was no valid charge against him.

According to him, since the prosecution had allegedly failed to establish any offence, there was no need to continue with any defence.

In response, Justice James Omotosho, who is presiding over the case, directed Kanu to file a written address outlining his position and to serve the same on the prosecution.

The judge also advised Kanu to seek legal counsel from criminal law experts to fully understand the implications of his decision to forgo his defence.

Justice Omotosho thereafter adjourned the case to November 4, 5, and 6, for the adoption of final written addresses—either based on Kanu’s stance that no case has been established against him, or for him to open his defence if he chooses otherwise.