The Federal High Court in Abuja has warned Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), that his defence may be foreclosed if he fails to open his case at the next hearing.
Justice James Omotosho issued the caution on Tuesday, following Kanu’s continued refusal to begin his defence after the prosecution closed its case and his no-case submission was dismissed.
Kanu, representing himself after dismissing his legal team, reiterated during the session that he would not enter a defence, insisting there were no valid charges against him under Nigerian law.
He said: “There is no valid charge pending against me. I should not be in detention, and I demand to be released immediately.”
Instead of filing a final written address as ordered, Kanu submitted a motion and affidavit challenging the court’s jurisdiction.
The prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), objected to Kanu’s stance, accusing him of deliberately stalling proceedings.
Awomolo urged the court to treat the motion as Kanu’s final written address and proceed to judgment.
However, Justice Omotosho ruled that Kanu’s filings were valid and would be considered at the appropriate time.
The judge emphasized that Kanu, not being a lawyer, should be given the opportunity to seek legal advice before proceeding.
The court adjourned the case to November 5, 2025, warning that failure to open his defence at the next hearing would result in the forfeiture of his right to do so.
