Nnamdi Kanu claims there’s no valid charge against him as his terrorism trial takes a new turn in Abuja court, demanding release or bail

The trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, took a dramatic turn on Monday as he insisted there was no valid case against him in the ongoing terrorism charges brought by the Federal Government.

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Kanu, who recently opted to defend himself after dismissing his legal team, refused to open his defence before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

He argued that, having thoroughly reviewed his case file, he found no lawful charge warranting his trial.

“There is actually no charge against me,” Kanu declared in court. “If there is no case against me, it will be futile for me to enter any defence.”

The IPOB leader also withdrew his earlier application requesting the court to summon high-profile witnesses, maintaining that his trial was based on an invalid charge.

Prosecution counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) reminded the court that the business of the day was for Kanu to open his defence.

However, the defendant maintained his stance, saying the prosecution had failed to establish a case recognised by any extant Nigerian law.

Justice Omotosho intervened, explaining that in criminal proceedings, a defendant has three options after the prosecution closes its case to make a no-case submission, enter a defence, or rest on the prosecution’s case.

Kanu insisted on the third option, stating: “I need a week to file a written address to the effect that there is no charge against me.

If there is no extant law in Nigeria on which the charge could stand, there cannot be a case. You must please release me today or grant me bail.”

Awomolo urged the court to adjourn for judgment, describing Kanu’s position as a “conclusive defence.”

Justice Omotosho, however, granted Kanu four days to file his written address, advising him to seek guidance from criminal law experts before proceeding.

“I am begging you in the name of God Almighty to consult properly,” the judge said. “Criminal cases are not like every other case… Please, make adequate consultation.”

The matter was subsequently adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6 for either the adoption of written addresses or for Kanu to open his defence if he chooses to change his mind.

Also read: Nnamdi Kanu trial adjourned over case file access

Kanu, detained since 2021, had earlier listed 23 high-profile individuals — including serving governors, ministers, and security chiefs as potential witnesses in his defence.