27
Oct
Oct
NNAMDI KANU DECLINES TO OPEN DEFENCE, INSISTS NO CASE AGAINST HIM
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CapitalTimesNews / 3 months
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- 2 min read
Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, has declined to open his defence in the case brought by the Federal Government. Kanu, who had previously indicated plans to call high-profile witnesses, made the announcement during Monday’s proceedings before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja. After finally receiving and reviewing his case file, Kanu stated he found no basis for the charges against him. He therefore requested one week to file a written address instead of calling witnesses. The lead prosecutor, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, strongly opposed the request. Awomolo argued that the court had already granted Kanu six days to conclude his defence, two of which had been lost. He insisted the case could not be allowed to drag indefinitely, stressing that the defendant had been fully aware of the charges since his plea was taken and witnesses were cross-examined. The lead prosecutor urged the court to treat Kanu’s refusal to open his defence as the conclusion of the matter and to adjourn for judgment. Justice Omotosho, however, cautioned Kanu about the implications of representing himself, describing him as a “layman” in legal practice. The judge advised him to seek guidance from persons knowledgeable in criminal law. The court also reminded Kanu that the issue of his extraordinary rendition from Kenya had already been settled and was no longer relevant to the trial. In the interest of justice, Justice Omotosho granted Kanu’s request and adjourned the case until Tuesday, November 4. The court will then hear either the opening of his defence or the adoption of his written address on his argument that the government has no case against him.