Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a final ultimatum to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to open his defence against terrorism charges by November 5, or risk forfeiting his right to do so.
The directive came after Kanu once again failed to enter his defence, following the court’s dismissal of his no-case submission and the closure of the prosecution’s case.
At the resumed hearing, Kanu—who is representing himself—told the court he had not filed a final written address but had instead submitted a motion and supporting affidavit.
“I will not enter any defence because there is no valid charge known to law pending against me,” Kanu declared, demanding immediate release and vowing not to return to detention.
Prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), challenged the legitimacy of Kanu’s filings, arguing they were improperly submitted and accusing the defendant of attempting to stall proceedings.
Awomolo urged the court to treat the documents as Kanu’s final written address and proceed to judgment.
Justice Omotosho, however, ruled that the documents were properly filed and would be considered at the time of judgment. He acknowledged Kanu’s lack of legal training and emphasized the need to allow him time to consult a lawyer.
The judge adjourned the matter to November 5, warning that failure to present a defence on that date would be interpreted as a waiver of the right to do so.
The case continues to attract national attention, with implications for legal procedure, civil rights, and political activism in Nigeria.
