The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, is set to begin his defence on Monday in the terrorism case against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
This development follows Justice James Omotosho’s decision on Friday to adjourn the trial. The adjournment was granted after Kanu told the court that his former legal team, led by ex-Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), had not yet released his case file to him.
Counsel for the Federal Government, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), reminded the court that the day had been scheduled for Kanu to open his defence as previously directed.
Kanu, who appeared in court carrying a bundle of documents, personally announced his appearance and explained that his dismissed lawyers had refused to hand over his case file. He requested an adjournment to allow him time to recover and review the file in preparation for his defence.
He also informed the court of his plan to call 23 witnesses — both local and foreign — and sought an order compelling the Department of State Services (DSS) to permit his foreign witnesses to access him. Additionally, Kanu asked for permission for his lawyers to visit him on non-working days, a request Justice Omotosho granted.
However, Awomolo described Kanu’s claim as “strange,” noting that the defendant had previously spent hours in court with the same lawyers. He urged the court to strictly enforce its earlier directive giving Kanu six days to open and conclude his defence.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho said that although Kanu’s allegation regarding the withheld file seemed “strange and difficult to believe,” he would allow a short adjournment in the interest of justice. The judge also cautioned against further delays, pointing out that other cases had been affected by the prolonged trial.
The case was then adjourned to Monday, October 27, for Kanu to commence his defence.
