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Human rights attorney, Inibehe Effiong, asserts that the self-proclaimed leader of the separatist organization, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is taking significant risks by abandoning his previous plan to call witnesses in his ongoing terrorism trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
DAILY POST reported that the IPOB leader presented his defense on Monday.
The court had adjourned the case on October 24 and rescheduled it for October 27 for the separatist to begin his defense.
Kanu subsequently submitted a letter to the court, expressing his intention to call witnesses and requesting witness summons, while asking for additional time to review his case file.
However, when the case was heard on Monday, Kanu stated that he had reviewed the case file and concluded that there is no valid charge against him.
In response, Effiong posted on X, stating, “Kanu’s legal strategy is perplexing at this stage,” and characterized his latest decision as a “very risky gamble.”
Effiong remarked, “The Court had previously dismissed his No Case Submission.
“He can no longer argue that he has no case to answer.
“He has two options to consider: either he presents his defense or he rests his case based on the prosecution's case.
“He has indicated that he no longer plans to present his defense.
“From my understanding of the media reports on today’s proceedings, Kanu believes that the prosecution has failed to prove the charges against him beyond a reasonable doubt.
“If my interpretation is incorrect, then there is clear confusion surrounding the situation.
“Nevertheless, the law is well established that a defendant is not required to prove or establish their innocence.
“Since Kanu has pleaded not guilty to the charges, the court will now need to review the evidence presented by the prosecution to determine if the elements of the offenses charged have been established beyond a reasonable doubt.
“Kanu's decision to pursue his case in this manner will not be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
“However, the evidence put forth by the prosecution will be considered unchallenged, except for the evidence obtained through cross-examination.
“The court will still have to decide whether the prosecution has met its legal burden of proof based on the admitted evidence.
“I am uncertain who is advising Kanu or what his motivations are, but he is making a very risky choice.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Nnamdi Kanu's trial?
Nnamdi Kanu's trial is ongoing, with the court having adjourned the case to allow him to present his defense. However, he has indicated that he may not pursue this option.
What are the implications of Kanu not calling witnesses?
If Kanu does not call witnesses, the evidence presented by the prosecution will remain unchallenged, which could impact the court's decision regarding the charges against him.
