Alleged terrorism: Again, court extends till Nov 7 for Kanu’s defence

A Federal High Court in Abuja has, for the umpteenth time, given the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu more time, till November 7, to open his defence or risk waiving the alleged terrorism offences. Justice James Omotosho on Wednesday again repeated his plea for Kanu to consult with criminal law […]

A Federal High Court in Abuja has, for the umpteenth time, given the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu more time, till November 7, to open his defence or risk waiving the alleged terrorism offences.

Justice James Omotosho on Wednesday again repeated his plea for Kanu to consult with criminal law experts to guide him in his chosen self-defence.

The decision of the judge followed Kanu’s refusal to open his defence on Wednesday in the seven-counts terrorism charges brought against him by the federal government.

At the resumed hearing, Kanu, who is representing himself, said the charges filed against him were invalid by the reason of being part of a repealed law.

He accused the court of violating the Supreme Court judgment that condemned his extra ordinary rendition from Kenya and demanded that the judge must unfailingly and immediately discharge him.

“The Terrorism Prevention Act has been repealed. I cannot put in defence under a repealed law, I won’t do that,” he said.

After pleas from the judge, Kanu agreed to consult with his four legal consultants, Aloy Ejimakor, Nnaemeka Ejiofor, Maxwell Okpara and Mandela Umegborogu on a possible defence.

However, prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), asked the court to stand on the order that Kanu either opens his defence or waive his right to do so.

The judge, nevertheless, clarified that he would bend backwards to avail Kanu with more opportunities to defend the allegations levelled against him.