The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Friday failed to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja, citing denial of access to his case file by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Kanu, who only on Thursday dismissed his legal team led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), and opted to represent himself, told the court that he could not proceed because he had not been allowed to review his case documents in detention.
The development temporarily stalled proceedings in the high-profile case, which has dragged on since his extraordinary rendition from Kenya in 2021.
When the matter was called up, prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), reminded the court that the day’s sitting had been specifically fixed for the defendant to begin his defence.
But taking the stand, Kanu explained that those who were meant to deliver his case file to him at the DSS facility were denied access, making it impossible for him to prepare adequately.
“I have not been given access to my case file to enable me familiarise myself with the documents and prepare for my defence,” Kanu told the court.
He therefore requested a short adjournment until Monday, October 27, to allow him time to review the materials and meet with potential witnesses.
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Awomolo did not oppose the application, prompting the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, to grant Kanu’s request. The court directed the DSS to allow him to receive visitors on Saturday and Sunday, specifically for the purpose of preparing his defence.
Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter until October 27 for the opening of the defence, warning that the six days allocated to Kanu to present his case would not be extended under any circumstances.
“The defendant is granted leave to receive visitors on Saturday and Sunday as requested. The case is adjourned till October 27, 2025, for the defendant to open his defence. The period allotted to him will not be extended,” the judge ruled.
Kanu is standing trial on multiple counts bordering on alleged terrorism, treasonable felony, and incitement. The Federal Government accuses him of making inflammatory broadcasts through Radio Biafra and allegedly instigating attacks against state institutions in the South-East.
The IPOB leader, however, maintains that he is being persecuted for exercising his right to self-determination, insisting that his 2021 abduction and rendition from Kenya was illegal and a violation of both Nigerian and international law.
