Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday began delivering judgment in the terrorism case against Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, continuing the proceedings without the defendant present.
The judge ordered the continuation after describing Kanu’s conduct in court as unruly, noting that his behaviour had disrupted proceedings on multiple occasions.
The decision came after the court dismissed three fresh motions filed by Kanu, ruling that they lacked merit. The IPOB leader objected sharply, arguing that judgment could not proceed because he had not filed his final written address.
Kanu interrupted the court several times, raising his voice and questioning the legal basis for the charges. “Which law states that you can charge me on an unwritten law? Show me… Any judgment declared in this court is complete rubbish,” he said, while also accusing Justice Omotosho of bias.
Following a brief adjournment, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the court to continue the trial without Kanu due to his disruptive conduct.
Justice Omotosho ruled that while defendants have a constitutional right to be present during their trial, persistent misconduct allows the court to proceed in their absence. “If a defendant misconducts himself or acts in an unruly manner during the course of his trial, his trial can be conducted in his absence,” he said.
The judge noted that Kanu had a history of similar behaviour and had previously stated that he would not present a defence. He also emphasized that the court “is a temple of God” and must maintain order.
Kanu was subsequently removed from the courtroom, and Justice Omotosho continued delivering the judgment and moving toward possible sentencing.