The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday began delivering judgment in the terrorism case against Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu after he was removed from the courtroom for persistent disruptions.
Justice James Omotosho ordered the proceedings to continue without the IPOB leader after dismissing three new applications Kanu filed. The court described the motions as lacking merit. Kanu repeatedly interrupted the session, insisting the court could not move forward because he had not submitted a final written address.
He shouted at the bench, questioning the legal basis of the charges and accusing the judge of bias. “Show me the law. Any judgment from this court is rubbish,” he said while arguing that he was being tried under an “unwritten” law.
Following a brief recess, lead prosecutor Adegboyega Awomolo asked the court to continue the trial in Kanu’s absence due to his behaviour. Justice Omotosho agreed, noting that while defendants have a constitutional right to be present, a court may lawfully proceed when an accused person becomes unruly.
“A defendant who disrupts proceedings can be tried in his absence,” the judge said, adding that the courtroom “is a temple of God” and must be respected.
Justice Omotosho also noted that Kanu had shown similar conduct in earlier sittings and reminded the court that he had not presented a defence. Thursday’s session was scheduled for the delivery of judgment and possible sentencing.
Court officials escorted Kanu out after the ruling, allowing the judge to continue reading the verdict.
