The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his defence in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
At the resumed hearing on Monday, Kanu, who is facing multiple counts bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony, told the court that after carefully reviewing the case file, he found no valid charge against him and therefore saw no need to open any defence.
The case had earlier been adjourned to October 27 for Kanu to open his defence after the prosecution closed its case. He had, in a previous correspondence to the court, indicated his intention to call witnesses and had even applied for witness summons to enable their appearance.
However, when proceedings resumed, Kanu informed the court that his decision had changed.
My Lord, I have gone through the case file and the evidence presented by the prosecution. I found that there is no valid charge against me. There is nothing to defend,” Kanu reportedly told the court.
The defence counsel did not object to his decision, while the prosecution, led by government lawyers, maintained that the charges against Kanu were properly framed and substantiated, urging the court to proceed in accordance with the law.
The presiding judge subsequently adjourned the matter for further proceedings to determine the next line of action, which may include ruling on whether the charges against Kanu are sufficient to sustain his trial.
Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in 2021, is accused by the Federal Government of inciting violence through his broadcasts and leading activities aimed at the disintegration of Nigeria. He has repeatedly denied all allegations, insisting that his agitation for Biafra was peaceful and rooted in self-determination as guaranteed under international law.
His legal team has continued to demand his unconditional release, citing various court rulings, including the Court of Appeal’s 2022 judgment which discharged him of similar charges, though the decision was later stayed following a government appeal.
Observers say Kanu’s latest stance could alter the course of the trial, potentially paving the way for legal arguments on whether the charges as currently framed can stand in law.
The case is expected to continue as the court considers submissions from both sides on the validity of the charges and the defendant’s decision not to call witnesses.
