- Safiu Kehinde
There was drama again at the Abuja Federal High Court as embattled leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) was ordered out of the court’s premises after his plea for a final address was rejected.
Kanu had on Thursday appeared before the court for the judgement on his alleged terrorism trial.
The IPOB leader, at the trial, reiterated his claim that the court had no jurisdiction over his case.
While shelving his claim, the Presiding Judge James Omotosho, proceeded with the trial but was interrupted by Kanu who requested for a final address.
The court rejected his request, leading to another round of rage and disruption of the court’s proceedings by the IPOB leader.
Kanu reiterated his plea, stressing that a final address before judgement is his constitutional right.
“Final written address is a constitutionally mandated right which I must be granted. I have no words with my lord and I will insist that I address this court on all these issues.” He said before being interrupted by the prosecution counsel who called for the dismissal of the request.
A fierce verbal confrontation would then ensue as the presiding judge urged Kanu to comport himself.
“This is the decision. I appeal to you to compose yourself. This is the Temple of Justice,” Justice Omotosho said, turning to Kanu, who appeared visibly agitated.
“My Lord you are bias. This is not law. Show me where it is says you can bar my final written address and I will sit down.” The visibly enraged IPOB leader said.
“Please, I beg you to compose yourself. You have the right to appeal. Can you excuse me?” Justice Omotosho charged.
He was subsequently ordered out of the court room.
Before being ushered out of the court room, the IPOB challenged the court’s jurisdiction over his case, declaring any judgement by the court a kangaroo ruling.
“Any judgement from this court is a kangaroo. It is premeditated,” Kanu said.
While been taken out of the court, Kanu, as captured in a video shared on X, took one last jab at the prosecution counsels as he verbally assaulted him.
“God will punish you. Now and forever.” He said as he walked out of the court room.
At some point, Kanu pushed away an official of the Directorate of State Security who tried to move him out of the court as ordered by the judge.
With the dismissal of the application, the matter proceeds toward judgment, while Kanu retains the option of challenging the ruling at the Court of Appeal.