The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the no-case submission filed by the self-acclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, in his ongoing terrorism trial.
In a ruling on Thursday, Justice Omotosho held that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against Kanu, requiring him to open his defence.
The judge noted that the evidence and exhibits tendered by the prosecution raised “serious allegations” of Kanu’s involvement in terrorism-related activities.
“The evidence led by the prosecution and the exhibits tendered have raised serious allegations to warrant that the defendant be allowed to defend himself,” Justice Omotosho ruled.
The court also stressed that granting Kanu the opportunity to respond was necessary in line with his fundamental right to a fair hearing.
Meanwhile, the court ordered the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to constitute a medical panel of between eight and ten doctors to evaluate Kanu’s health condition.
The directive follows an application by Kanu’s legal team, who argued that his alleged life-threatening illness required urgent medical treatment in a private ward at the National Hospital.
Justice Omotosho said the panel must determine whether Kanu’s health challenges could prevent him from standing trial.
Kanu is facing a seven-count charge brought by the Department of State Services (DSS), bordering on his alleged involvement in terrorism activities.
The case continues to generate national and international attention, particularly around Kanu’s claims of extraordinary rendition from Kenya to Nigeria in 2021.
https://www.channelstv.com/
