Federal high court sets Nov 20 for judgment in Nnamdi Kanu’s terrorism trial

Federal high court sets Nov 20 for judgment in Nnamdi Kanu’s terrorism trial

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 20 for judgment in the terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The decision was reached on Friday after Kanu failed to open his defence within the six-day window granted by the court. The judge ruled that Kanu, having exhausted the allotted time, could no longer claim denial of his constitutional right to fair hearing.

Kanu, who has been representing himself in the seven-count terrorism charge brought against him by the federal government, declined to present a defence during Wednesday’s proceedings. He argued that the charges were invalid, citing the repeal of the Terrorism Prevention Act under which the case was filed.

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“I cannot put in a defence under a repealed law,” Kanu stated, insisting that the court had violated a Supreme Court judgment which condemned his extraordinary rendition from Kenya. He demanded an immediate discharge from the trial.

Despite the judge’s repeated appeals, Kanu remained adamant, though he eventually agreed to consult with his legal advisers — Aloy Ejimakor, Nnaemeka Ejiofor, Maxwell Okpara, and Mandela Umegborogu — on the possibility of mounting a defence.

Prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), urged the court to enforce its earlier directive that Kanu either proceed with his defence or waive the right to do so.

Justice Omotosho emphasized that the court had gone to great lengths to ensure Kanu was given ample opportunity to respond to the charges. With no defence forthcoming, the judge concluded proceedings and scheduled judgment for November 20.

Stay tuned for updates as the case approaches its critical verdict.

Federal high court sets Nov 20 for judgment in Nnamdi Kanu’s terrorism trial