Nnamdi Kanu Backs Out of Defence, Says No Valid Charge Against Him in Terrorism Trial

The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has withdrawn his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Kanu, who had previously applied for witness summons and requested additional time to review his case file, told the court on Monday that after studying the documents, he found no valid charge against him. He argued that since the charges were, in his view, baseless and amounted to an unlawful trial, there was no reason for him to open any defence.

Presiding Judge, Justice James Omotosho, advised the defendant to seek expert counsel in criminal law on the implications of his decision before taking further steps. The court directed Kanu to file a formal written address outlining his position and to serve the prosecution accordingly.

Following the development, Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses or, should Kanu reconsider, for him to present his defence.

Kanu is standing trial on charges bordering on terrorism, which he has consistently denied. His latest move adds a new twist to a case that has drawn both national and international attention since his re-arrest and rendition to Nigeria in 2021.