The Federal High Court in Abuja, under Justice James Omotosho’s oversight, has scheduled November 20 for delivering its ruling on the seven-count terrorism charge against Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
This date was established after Kanu did not use the six days provided by the court to begin his defence against the charges brought by the Federal Government.
Rather than starting his defence on Friday, November 7, Kanu, who opted to represent himself after dismissing his legal team, submitted a new motion contesting the validity of the charge and the court’s authority to hear his case.
In the motion he submitted, Kanu contended that his prosecution relies on a law that no longer exists, specifically asserting that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, which forms the basis of the charge, has been repealed.
Justice Omotosho chose to move toward a judgment following Kanu’s consistent refusal to present his defence. The judge had earlier offered the IPOB leader a final chance to argue his case, cautioning that failing to do so would lead to the defence being closed.
By submitting a motion questioning the charge’s legitimacy instead of presenting a defence, the court effectively considered that Kanu had relinquished his right to contest the case on its substance.
This development marks a pivotal moment in the prolonged and politically charged trial, with the November 20 judgment poised to decide the outcome for the separatist leader.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
