- Safiu Kehinde
The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has declined court’s request to open his defence in the terrorism charge filed against him.
Kanu, who had last week sacked all members of his legal team and opted to defend himself, maintained that that there is no charge against him.
Recall that the embattled IPOB leader had last week appeared before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court at the resumption of his trial.
Kanu presented a list of witnesses which included prominent Nigerians such as the Federal Capital Territory’s Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The judge had in his ruling adjourned the case till Monday 27th of October for the secessionist leader to open his defense.
However, Kanu at the resumed proceedings on Monday, said he has gone through his case file and there is no charge against him.
According to reports, the IPOB leader held that there is no extant law in Nigeria that can prosecute him.
“Join me in praising God. I have gone through my case file, and there is no charge against me,” he started.
“There is no extant law in this country upon which the prosecution can predicate the charges against me. If there’s any, let my Lord read it out to me.
“So, I should not enter any defence in a charge that does not exist under any law in Nigeria. I urge you to release me today or grant me bail.”
Justice James Omotosho asked him to file a written address to that effect and serve the prosecution.
The judge advised him to consult experts in criminal law on the consequences of the option he has chosen.
The judge, thereafter, adjourned till the 4th, 5th & 6th November for the adoption of the final written addresses based on the defendant’s position that evidence led so far and the charge have not established any case against him, or for the defendant to enter his defence.