Abuja: The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled November 20 for delivering its judgment in the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who is facing charges related to alleged terrorism offences. The decision was made by Justice James Omotosho on Friday after the court foreclosed Kanu’s defence due to his refusal to proceed under a repealed law.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Justice Omotosho emphasized that the court had provided Kanu with the opportunity to defend himself in compliance with Section 36 of the constitution. The judge stated, “This court has given opportunity to the defendant under Section 36 as required by the constitution and I will not allow this to continue.” Justice Omotosho further remarked that Kanu’s actions amounted to waiving his right to defence, which led to the decision to foreclose his defence and set the judgment date.
The trial has drawn significant attention due to the charges against Kanu, which are rooted in allegations of terrorism. The case has been closely monitored, with the scheduled judgment potentially having significant implications for Kanu and the IPOB movement. The court’s ruling on November 20 will be pivotal in determining the legal consequences Kanu faces.