Embattled leader of the Indegenous People Of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu sparked chaos in the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, refusing to submit to trial on terrorism charges.
Kanu vehemently objected, claiming the Nigerian government lacks constitutional and international authority to prosecute him.
As the trial began, Kanu’s request for restored bail and removal from DSS custody was denied. He then contested the government lawyer’s attempt to proceed with the trial, standing up from the dock and taking over arguments from his lawyers. Kanu cited authorities from a document, insisting he wouldn’t be prosecuted unjustly and illegally.
When government lawyer Adegboyega Awomolo interjected, Kanu became enraged, labeling him a “terrorist” and “dishonest man” in open court. Despite Justice Binta Fatimat Nyako’s attempts to calm him down, Kanu repeatedly shouted at Awomolo, saying, “As current Chairman of Body of Benchers, you should know the Constitution and uphold it.”
In his response, Awomolo stated “He’s acting on emotions; I’m not offended or provoked.” To ease tensions, the court granted an adjournment for Kanu’s legal team to consult with him in a private room. The trial is now set for June 19 and 21.
Kanu’s outburst has revealed the heightening tensions surrounding his case, even as the embattled leader continues to face trial