The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has once again refused to open his defence in the seven-count terrorism charge filed against him by the Federal Government.
At Tuesday’s resumed hearing before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, Kanu—who has been representing himself after dismissing his legal team—insisted that there was no valid charge pending against him.
“You cannot ask me to begin my defence when you have not stated the law under which I am being charged. There is no law backing these charges. I request to be released,” Kanu told the court.
Kanu cited Section 36(12) of the 1999 Constitution, arguing that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act under which he was charged had been repealed, rendering his trial unconstitutional.
He also accused the government of violating the Supreme Court judgment that previously condemned his extraordinary rendition from Kenya, saying continued trial amounts to a breach of his fundamental rights.
“In Nigeria today, the Constitution is the supreme law. The law under which I’m being tried no longer exists,” Kanu said from the dock.
Prosecution Pushes Back
Lead prosecutor, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), countered Kanu’s arguments, describing his court filings as “incompetent” and “lacking probative value.” He urged the court to treat the filings as a final written address and proceed to deliver judgment.
However, Justice Omotosho dismissed the prosecution’s objection, ruling that the defendant’s submissions would be considered before judgment. The judge also gave Kanu one last chance to open his defence, warning that failure to do so would mean forfeiting his right.
The case was adjourned till Wednesday, when Kanu is expected to either defend himself or face judgment without defence.
