The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing terrorism trial before the Federal High Court, Abuja.

Kanu, who is facing seven counts of terrorism-related charges filed by the Federal Government, informed the court that he had reviewed his case file and concluded that there were no valid charges against him, thus rendering a defence unnecessary.

At the last sitting on Friday, Kanu had requested an adjournment, citing that his former legal team, led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), had yet to hand over his case file. He had also indicated readiness to call witnesses once the documents were made available.

However, at Monday’s resumed proceedings, Kanu changed his stance, insisting that the charges were unlawful and that the prosecution had failed to establish any case warranting a defence. “There is no valid charge before this court,” he reportedly told the judge.

In response, the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, directed Kanu to file a written address formally presenting his new position and to serve the Federal Government’s legal team accordingly. The judge further advised him to consult criminal law experts to understand the implications of declining to present a defence.

Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the matter to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses. The court will then determine whether Kanu’s claim that no case has been made against him will stand, or if he will be required to open his defence.

Kanu’s trial, which has been ongoing since his re-arrest and extradition to Nigeria in 2021, continues to attract both national and international attention amid persistent calls from various groups for his release.