The detained self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, failed to open his defence on Friday in his ongoing terrorism trial before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Kanu said he could not proceed because he had not been given the case file to review and prepare adequately for his defence.
After dismissing his legal team led by former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Kanu Agabi, on Thursday, Kanu had requested a short adjournment to enable him to prepare.
When the matter resumed on Friday, prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) informed the court that the case was slated for Kanu to begin his defence.
Kanu, who chose to represent himself, told the court he could not proceed since those meant to deliver the case file to him at the Department of State Services (DSS) custody were unable to reach him.
He requested an adjournment till Monday, October 27, to allow him to review the file and prepare, noting that he was expecting witnesses from the United Kingdom, United States, Kenya, and Ethiopia.
Kanu also sought an order permitting the DSS to grant him access to visitors on Saturday and Sunday to aid his preparation.
Awomolo did not object, and Justice Omotosho directed the DSS to allow the visits, adjourning the trial till October 27.
The judge, however, warned that the six days allotted for Kanu’s defence, beginning October 23, would not be extended.