Nnamdi Kanu Abandons Defence Plan, Says No Valid Charge Against Him

The detained self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences.

In the resumed hearing on Monday, the embattled IPOB leader told the Federal High Court in Abuja that after carefully reviewing his case file, he was convinced there was no valid charge against him. Kanu explained that since he had been subjected to what he described as an “unlawful trial,” there was no need to proceed with calling witnesses in his defence.

The case had earlier been adjourned on October 24 to allow Kanu to open his defence, following his written notification to the court indicating his intention to call witnesses and apply for witness summons. However, his sudden decision to withdraw from that plan took many by surprise.

During the proceedings, Justice Omotosho advised Kanu to seek the counsel of experts in criminal law to understand the implications of the choice he had made. The judge then adjourned the matter to 4th, 5th, and 6th November for the adoption of final written addresses based on the defendant’s current position that the evidence led so far and the charges before the court have not established any case against him.

The court is expected to determine whether Kanu’s argument holds sufficient merit to end the trial or if the prosecution has presented enough evidence to warrant a defence.

Thanks. By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News