The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, agreed on Wednesday to consult his legal advisors before proceeding with his defense against terrorism charges filed by the Federal Government.
This decision came during a session at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice James Omotosho encouraged Kanu to seek proper legal guidance after he repeatedly claimed the charges were invalid.
Originally resistant to proceeding with his defense, Kanu ultimately acknowledged the need to confer with his legal team, which includes notable lawyers such as Nnaemeka Ejiofor and Aloy Ejimakor. The judge granted an adjournment until November 7, marking the fourth occasion Kanu has been given a chance to open his defense or waive that right.
Kanu had previously dismissed his legal team, including former Attorney General Kanu Agabi (SAN), opting to represent himself. Initially, he planned to call 23 witnesses, including prominent figures like Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister Nyesom Wike, but later reversed his decision, arguing that the charges against him stemmed from a repealed law.
During the recent court proceedings, Kanu reiterated his stance that no valid terrorism charge existed against him, asserting that the law under which he was being tried had been revoked. The prosecution had closed its case in June, establishing a prima facie case against him. However, Kanu has struggled to open his defense, citing the lack of documents from his former lawyers. The Federal Government’s counsel urged the court to enforce its orders requiring Kanu to either defend himself or waive his right, but the judge opted to allow Kanu to seek further legal advice in the interest of justice.
