Proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday took an unusual turn when the trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, openly pleaded with the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to seek legal counsel before continuing with his defence in the terrorism case filed against him by the Federal Government.
Kanu, who is facing seven counts of terrorism, had earlier dismissed his legal team and opted to conduct his defence personally. The judge, however, cautioned against the move, describing it as risky given the technical nature of criminal proceedings.
“I am begging you in the name of God Almighty to consult properly,” Justice Omotosho told Kanu.
“I will grant you the adjournment you seek. I know you are educated, but you are not a lawyer. You need experts in this field. Please make adequate consultation. This is not economics; this is criminal prosecution.”
The judge explained that his appeal was not to interfere with Kanu’s decision but to ensure that due process was properly observed.
When proceedings resumed, Kanu identified himself as the defendant and insisted there was no legal basis for the charges filed against him.
“There is actually no charge against me,” he declared. “If the prosecution has failed to establish a case, there is no need for me to enter any defence.”
He maintained that no valid law supported the allegations and described the continuation of the trial as unnecessary.
In response, Justice Omotosho, explained the options available to Kanu after the prosecution closed its case.
“In a criminal trial, a defendant has three options after the prosecution closes its case,” he said.
“You may file a no-case submission, rest on the prosecution’s evidence, or proceed to open your defence and call witnesses.”
Despite the explanation, Kanu stood his ground, insisting that the case lacked substance.
The matter was adjourned to a later date for continuation of the trial.
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