Abuja: The Federal High Court in Abuja has given Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a final chance to present his defense in the ongoing alleged terrorism offenses case or risk losing the opportunity to do so.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Justice James Omotosho emphasized his responsibility as a judge to ensure that Kanu is afforded the opportunity to present his defense. The judge warned that if Kanu fails to do so, he will be considered as having forfeited his right to defend himself. The court has adjourned the case to November 7, providing Kanu one last opportunity to enter his defense.
The judge’s remarks came after an application by the prosecuting lawyer, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, who requested the court to foreclose Kanu’s defense. Awomolo argued that Kanu had already utilized five out of the six days allocated by the court for his defense and had failed to present it. He noted that Kanu did not open his defense during the Wednesday proceedings, despite the court’s order.
Awomolo pointed out that Kanu has maintained his stance of not entering a defense, claiming there is no valid charge against him. Consequently, Awomolo urged the court to close Kanu’s defense and proceed to judgment.
In response, Kanu addressed the court from the dock, reiterating his belief that there is no valid charge against him that necessitates a defense. Furthermore, Justice Omotosho addressed a complaint by Awomolo regarding Kanu’s former lawyers, who now identify as his consultants. The judge cautioned these lawyers, including P. A. N Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Dr. Maxwell Opara, and Prince Mandela Umegburu, to adhere to the ethical standards of the legal profession, following allegations of them granting media interviews and making social media posts related to the case.