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

Kanu, who is standing trial on seven counts of terrorism filed by the Federal Government, told the court that he would instead be making a no-case submission.

At the last adjourned sitting on Friday, Kanu had sought a postponement, informing the court that his former legal team, led by a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), had yet to release his case file to him.

He had earlier indicated his readiness to call witnesses in his defence and even applied for the issuance of witness summons.

However, at Monday’s proceedings, Kanu told the trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, that after reviewing the case file, he was convinced that the charges against him were baseless and that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case.

According to him, since the charges were “unlawful,” there was no need to proceed with his defence.

In response, Justice Omotosho directed Kanu to file a written address formally stating his position and to serve the prosecution accordingly.

The judge also advised the IPOB leader to consult experts in criminal law to fully understand the possible legal implications of his decision.

The matter was subsequently adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses—either on the basis of Kanu’s no-case submission or for him to proceed with his defence, should he decide otherwise.