Kanu Disrupts Proceedings, Accuses Judge of Bias During Heated Exchange (Video)
The Federal High Court in Abuja is scheduled to deliver judgment today in the terrorism case involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, with the proceedings set to be broadcast live.
Officials of the court confirmed the development on Thursday morning as cameramen from major television stations, including NTA, Channels TV, AIT, and TVC, set up equipment inside the courtroom.
Justice James Omotosho had on November 7 fixed today for the judgment after ruling that Kanu’s defence was foreclosed. The judge held that the IPOB leader had exhausted the six days allocated to him to open his defence but declined to do so, insisting he would not proceed under a repealed law. According to the court, Kanu therefore waived his right to further defence and could not claim denial of fair hearing.
Kanu Arrives Court, Insists No Judgment Can Hold
Kanu arrived in court ahead of the ruling and maintained that no judgment could be delivered because he had filed fresh processes. Justice Omotosho is expected to rule on multiple applications from both parties, including Kanu’s challenge to the validity of the terrorism charges and his request for release on grounds of alleged unlawful detention and violation of his fundamental rights.
The IPOB leader, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services since June 2021 following what his lawyers describe as an “extraordinary rendition” from Kenya, is facing seven terrorism-related charges, all of which he denies.
In a new motion, Kanu argued that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act under which he is being tried has been repealed, and therefore the charges “disclose no offence known to law.” He also asked the court to expunge the plea of not guilty allegedly entered for him and to set aside all proceedings in the case.
Security Heightened as Kanu’s Family Raises Alarm
Kanu’s brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, on Thursday raised concerns over increased security presence around their family home, claiming that it had been surrounded by security agents. He called the situation alarming while urging public attention ahead of today’s ruling.
The heightened tension comes as residents in parts of the South-East express concern over possible unrest linked to the outcome of the court’s decision.
Courtroom Disruption as Kanu Challenges Judge
Proceedings were briefly halted on Thursday when Kanu confronted the trial judge, accusing him of bias and insisting the court must “show him the law” that prevents him from filing a written address.
His repeated outbursts prompted security operatives to escort him out of the courtroom before the session resumed.