Nnamdi Kanu Backs Out Of Calling Witnesses, Says No Valid Charge Against Him

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 the ongoing terrorism trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Kanu, who is standing trial for alleged terrorism-related offences filed by the Federal Government, told the court on Monday that he would no longer be calling any witnesses after reviewing his case file.

The court had, on October 24, adjourned till October 27 for Kanu to open his defence after he had earlier applied to summon witnesses and requested time to study his case file.

However, at the resumed hearing, Kanu informed the trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, that he had carefully examined the case materials and concluded that the charges against him were baseless.

“I have gone through the case file and realised there is no valid charge against me,” Kanu said. “Since I am convinced that I am being subjected to an unlawful trial, there will be no need for me to open any defence.”

In response, Justice Omotosho directed the IPOB leader to put his position in writing by filing a written address and serving the prosecution team accordingly.

The judge further advised Kanu to seek legal guidance from experts in criminal law on the possible consequences of his decision to forgo calling witnesses or presenting evidence in his defence.

“You should consult experts in criminal law to understand the legal implications of this option,” Justice Omotosho cautioned.

Following Kanu’s position, the judge adjourned proceedings till November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses.

The adjournment, according to the court, will allow parties to address whether the evidence led so far by the prosecution and the charges before the court have established a case against the defendant, or whether Kanu can be discharged without entering any defence.

Nnamdi Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since 2021 after he was rearrested and brought back to Nigeria from Kenya. His trial, which has spanned several years and generated wide public interest, revolves around allegations of terrorism, incitement, and unlawful broadcast activities linked to the proscribed IPOB group.