Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has been asked to order Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to present his defence in the terrorism case brought against him by the Federal Government.
At Friday’s hearing, the prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), urged the court to reject the no-case submission filed by the defence and direct Kanu to answer the allegations. Awomolo emphasized that the charges are grave, involving accusations of terrorism, incitement to violence, and the alleged killing of over 170 security operatives.
While adopting the prosecution’s written argument against the no-case submission, Awomolo insisted that the evidence presented so far establishes a prima facie case against the defendant. According to him, five witnesses had taken the stand and various materials, including video and audio recordings, had been tendered in court.
Responding to arguments made by the defence counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), Awomolo said the prosecution’s response had adequately addressed all points raised, making the defence’s no-case plea unfounded.
He further noted that the court’s current task is to assess whether the evidence presented thus far is sufficient to require the defendant to respond. Awomolo also faulted the defence for attempting to undermine witness credibility and challenge the evidence at this stage, stating that such arguments are more appropriate for a later phase of the trial.
