By Obinna Uballa
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday began delivering judgment in the long-running terrorism trial of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu in the defendant’s absence after he was removed from the courtroom for unruly conduct.
The judge took the decision following the dismissal of three fresh motions filed by Kanu, which the court deemed unmeritorious. During the session, Kanu repeatedly interjected, insisting the court could not proceed because he had not filed his final written address.
Raising his voice, Kanu challenged the court, demanding, “‘Which law states that you can charge me on an unwritten law? Show me. Omotosho, where is the law? Any judgment declared in this Court is a complete rubbish.” He further accused Justice Omotosho of bias and claimed the judge lacked understanding of the law.
After a brief recess, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the court to continue in Kanu’s absence, citing his disruptive behaviour. Justice Omotosho ruled that while defendants have a constitutional right to be present during trial, repeated misconduct allows proceedings to continue without them.
“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,” the judge said, adding that the court is a “temple of God.”
The judge noted that Kanu’s disruptive attitude was not new, having been observed multiple times in previous proceedings. He also reminded the courtroom that Kanu had indicated he would not present a defence, and Thursday’s session was set for the delivery of judgment and potential sentencing.
Following the order, Kanu was removed from the courtroom, and Justice Omotosho proceeded with delivering the ruling.
