The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has withdrawn his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences.
The trial, which resumed on Monday before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, was initially scheduled for Kanu to open his defence. The court had earlier adjourned the case on October 24 to allow him to present his witnesses, following his formal request for witness summons.
However, when proceedings resumed, Kanu informed the court that after reviewing the case file, he found no valid charge against him. He said that since he believed the case lacked merit and that his trial was unlawful, there was no reason to proceed with his defence.
Justice Omotosho directed Kanu to file a written address outlining his position and to serve the prosecution accordingly. The judge also advised him to seek expert legal counsel on the implications of his decision to forgo calling witnesses.
The court then adjourned the matter to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses. The adoption will either proceed based on Kanu’s argument that the prosecution failed to establish a case against him or allow him to present his defence if he chooses to do so.
Details shortly…
