JUST IN: Nnamdi Kanu Withdraws Plan to Call Witnesses

Nnamdi Kanu withdraws plan to call witnesses, claims no valid charge exists.
Justice Omotosho urges him to seek expert legal advice before finalising decision.
Case adjourned to November 4–6 for adoption of final written addresses.

The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has formally withdrawn his plan to call witnesses in his ongoing terrorism trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

EDITOR’S PICKS

EKO HOT BLOG reports that Kanu, who had earlier applied for a witness summons, informed the court on Monday that after reviewing his case file, he was convinced that there was no valid charge against him.

“Since I am convinced that there is no valid charge against me, and because I was subjected to an unlawful trial, there would be no need for me to conduct any defence,” Kanu told the court.

Presiding Judge, Justice James Omotosho, acknowledged his statement and directed him to file a written address to formally reflect his decision, which must also be served on the prosecution team.

The judge, however, advised the IPOB leader to seek professional legal guidance before finalising his move. “You should consult experts in criminal law on the consequences of the option you have chosen,” Justice Omotosho cautioned.

The case, which had earlier been slated for October 27 for Kanu to open his defence, has now been adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses by both parties.

At the next sitting, the court is expected to consider Kanu’s argument that the charges and evidence presented by the prosecution do not establish a case requiring any defence.

Kanu is standing trial on terrorism-related charges filed by the Federal Government. He has repeatedly maintained his innocence and accused the government of violating his fundamental rights through what he described as an unlawful rendition and detention.