Kanu Declines to Enter Defence, Says No Valid Case Against Him

Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has refused to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial, insisting that there is no valid charge against him.

At Monday’s proceedings before the Federal High Court in Abuja, Kanu told Justice James Omotosho that after reviewing the case files, he concluded that the prosecution had failed to establish any case requiring his defence.

“I have gone through the case files and found that there is actually no charge against me,” Kanu said. “There is no existing law in this country upon which the prosecution can base its case. It would be futile for me to enter any defence.”

The court had previously adjourned to October 28 for Kanu to open his defence, following his earlier indication that he would call witnesses. Five seats had even been reserved in the courtroom for witnesses expected to testify.

When the case was called, lead prosecutor Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) appeared with other lawyers, while Kanu, who has dismissed his legal team, announced that he would represent himself.

Justice Omotosho then explained to Kanu that after the prosecution closes its case, a defendant has three options:

1. Enter a no-case submission;


2. If overruled, proceed to open a defence; or


3. Rest on the prosecution’s case and file a written address for judgment.



The judge reminded Kanu that his earlier no-case submission had already been dismissed, and the ruling that he had a case to answer still stands.

Kanu maintained his position, stating: “There is no need for me to enter a defence because there is no valid charge against me.”

He then requested a week’s adjournment to prepare a written address supporting his claim. The prosecution did not object, urging the court to proceed to judgment afterward.

Justice Omotosho advised Kanu to seek professional legal counsel before taking further steps, noting that the court has a duty to ensure he understands the consequences of representing himself.

The judge recalled that after Kanu sacked his lawyers, the court offered to assign a pro bono counsel through the Legal Aid Council, but he declined.

Justice Omotosho subsequently granted Kanu four days to file his written address and serve it on the prosecution, which will then file a reply.

The case was adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6, 2025, for the adoption of written addresses or for Kanu to decide if he will open his defence.