Naamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indegenous Peopke of Biafra (IPOB), caused a commotion at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday by refusing to submit to trial on terrorism charges . This led Justice Binga Fatima’s Nyako to adjourn the trial to June 19 to restore order.
Kanu, shouting at the top of his voice, insisted he would not submit to trial arguing that the Nigerian government lacks the constitutional and international legal authority to prosecute him.
Shortly after the judge denied his request for bail reinstatement and removal from DSS custody, Nanamdi Kanu rose from the dock and contested the Federal Government lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo’s attempt to commence the trail.
As soon as Awomolo announced that his won’t mess we’re present and ready to proceed, Kanu stood up and took over the arguments from his lawyers, led by Aloy Ejiamakor. He told the court to abandon the trial, asserting that he would not allow himself to be prosecuted unjustly and illegally.
He cited numerous authorities from a document he had i the dock to support his objections to the trial.
When the government lawyer interjected , stating that a defendant was not permitted to speak in the manner Kanu was, the Biafra agitator grew even angrier. He verbally attacked the senior lawyer, openly calling him a terrorist.
Justice Nyako’s attempt to calm him down we’re unsuccessful, as Kanu continued to shout, repeatedly calling the government lawyer “a terrorist and a dishonest man”
”As current Chairman of Body of Benchers, you are supposed to know the Constitution and uphold it,” Kanu said , referring to Awomolo.
Apparently displeased with Kanu’s outburst, Awomolo informed Justice Nyako that such behavior was to be expected .
”He is only acting on emotions. I am not offended , I am not provoked,” the senior lawyer submitted.
To address the situation, the court granted a request by Kanu’s lawyer for an adjournment, allowing the legal team to consult with him in a secure environment free from eavesdropping. Justice Nyako th en scheduled the trial to commence on June 19 and 21.