KEY POINTS
- Nnamdi Kanu says no valid charge exists.
- Court gives him four days to file defence.
- Judge advises him to consult legal experts.
Detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu told a Federal High Court in Abuja that he will not call witnesses in his ongoing terrorism trial.
He insisted there was no valid charge against him, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish any case requiring a defence.
The case, heard before Justice James Omotosho, had been adjourned for Kanu to open his defence. But when proceedings resumed, Kanu who has opted to represent himself declared that he saw no legal basis for the trial after reviewing the case files.
Court explains options, grants time for written address on no case submission
Justice Omotosho reminded Kanu that after the prosecution closes its case, a defendant may either make a no-case submission, open a defence, or rest on the prosecution’s case. The judge also noted that Kanu’s earlier no-case submission had already been dismissed, meaning he still had a case to answer.
Furthermore, Kanu maintained his stance, saying: “There is no need for me to enter a defence. What I’m saying is that there is no case against me.”
The judge then granted Kanu four days to file a written address supporting his position and to serve it on the prosecution. The prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), argued that Kanu’s decision implied he intended to rely on points of law as his defence.
Judge urges Kanu to seek expert legal advice
Justice Omotosho cautioned Kanu to seek guidance from criminal law experts before taking further steps, stressing that he must understand the implications of not mounting a defence.
The court adjourned the case to November 4, 5, and 6 for either the adoption of written addresses or the opening of Kanu’s defence should he change his mind.
