Kanu fails to open defence, blames ex-counsel over case file

Detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Friday failed to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja, citing lack of access to his case file.

Kanu, who had earlier sacked his legal team led by former Attorney General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN), told the court he was unable to prepare for his defence because his former lawyers had not handed over the necessary documents.

The IPOB leader was scheduled to begin his defence on Thursday but requested a short adjournment after announcing the dismissal of his legal team. On Friday, when the matter resumed, prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) reminded the court that the day had been set aside for Kanu to open his defence.

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However, Kanu informed the court that he was not ready, explaining that those expected to deliver the case file to him at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility had failed to do so.

He prayed the court for an adjournment till Monday, October 27, to enable him access the file and prepare adequately. Kanu also disclosed that he was expecting witnesses from the UK, US, Kenya, and Ethiopia, and requested that the DSS allow him receive visitors over the weekend to facilitate his defence.

Awomolo did not oppose the request, prompting Justice James Omotosho to grant the application and order the DSS to permit Kanu to receive visitors on Saturday and Sunday.

The judge subsequently adjourned the matter till October 27, warning that the six-day window granted for Kanu’s defence, which began on October 23, would not be extended.

Kanu fails to open defence, blames ex-counsel over case file