Court gives Nnamdi Kanu final chance to defend terrorism case

The Federal High Court in Abuja has given detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, a final chance to defend himself in the terrorism case filed against him by the Federal Government.

Justice James Omotosho ruled that Kanu must present his defence on or before November 5, warning that failure to do so would mean forfeiting his right to defend the charges.

The judge advised Kanu to work with lawyers experienced in criminal law or officially appoint one if he insists on self-representation, stressing that the court would not tolerate further delays.

Kanu, however, declined to enter his defence, insisting that there are no valid charges before the court.

He argued that the case is “incompetent and illegal,” citing Section 36(12) of the 1999 Constitution to claim that there is “no written law on the offence of terrorism in Nigeria.”

He also said he would not return to DSS custody unless the charges are properly presented, describing his detention as unlawful.

Kanu accused the court of ignoring the Supreme Court’s ruling on his extraordinary rendition from Kenya and demanded his immediate release.

Following several unsuccessful attempts to persuade him, Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to November 5, when Kanu is expected to open his defence or lose the right to do so.

Meanwhile, calls for his release have intensified.

The Igbo Political Network (IPN) renewed its demand for Kanu’s freedom, arguing that his prolonged detention fuels insecurity in the South-East and undermines peace efforts.

IPN President, Alex Okemiri, condemned the situation as “unjust and an act of wickedness,” accusing some Igbo politicians of sabotaging efforts for Kanu’s release.

Similarly, Rev. Fr. Augustine Odimmegwa, a U.S.-based Catholic priest and coordinator of the advocacy group Rising Sun, described Kanu’s continued detention as “a shameful abuse of justice” and a violation of both local and international laws.

Kanu was first arrested in 2015 and re-arrested in 2021 after being taken from Kenya, sparking nationwide controversy and protests over his continued detention and trial.