Court Sets November 20 to Give Judgment in Nnamdi Kanu Case

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has fixed November 20 as the date to announce its judgment in the terrorism case involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. The date was confirmed on Friday after the court reviewed the progress of the matter.

Justice James Omotosho said the judgment date was chosen after observing that Kanu did not present his defence within the time allowed. The court had given him six days to speak in his own defence, but he did not make use of the opportunity.

According to the judge, since Kanu was given enough time and chose not to defend himself, he cannot later say he was denied a fair hearing. The court explained that the right to fair hearing is valid only when the defendant uses the chance provided.

However, during the sitting, Kanu raised a new argument. He told the court that the terrorism law under which he is being tried has been repealed. He argued that the previous Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act is no longer in use, meaning the charges against him should not stand.

Kanu insisted that the case has no legal basis anymore and asked the court to discharge him. He also said he should be released and allowed to return home.

The government has continued to hold its position on the charges, which are tied to the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a group the government has declared unlawful.

This case has remained a major topic in Nigeria and among supporters of the IPOB movement. Many are waiting to see what the court will decide.

All attention now shifts to November 20, when the Federal High Court will announce its final decision in this long-running case.

More updates are expected soon.