Nnamdi Kanu, the self-representing leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was unable to open his defence in his terrorism trial before a Federal High Court in Abuja, citing his “inability to access the case file” and secure vital documents while in Department of State Services (DSS) custody.
The terrorism trial of the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, was stalled on Friday at the Federal High Court in Abuja after he informed the court he could not open his defence.
Kanu, who is now representing himself after sacking his previous legal team, told the court that he had not been able to access his case file to prepare adequately. He explained that those who were to bring the case file to him in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) “could not get to him.”
The defendant, who is expecting witnesses “from all over the world, including the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Kenya and Ethiopia,” prayed for an adjournment till Monday, October 27. He also requested an order for the DSS to allow him access to visitors, including on Saturday and Sunday, for defence preparation.
Prosecuting lawyer Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) did not object. Consequently, Justice Omotosho ordered the DSS to allow him to receive visitors over the weekend and adjourned the matter to October 27, while warning that the six days granted for his defence would not be extended.