Drama as Nnamdi Kanu Forces Judge to Exit During Live-Broadcast Terrorism Trial
“Drama erupted at the Federal High Court in Abuja as Nnamdi Kanu disrupted proceedings during his live-broadcast terrorism trial, forcing Justice James Omotosho to briefly exit. Here’s the full report on the tense courtroom moment.”
There was heightened drama on Thursday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, after Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), abruptly interrupted proceedings—forcing the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, to momentarily step out of the courtroom.
Famousreporters.com reports that the incident unfolded just as Justice Omotosho prepared to deliver judgment in Kanu’s ongoing terrorism trial, which was being broadcast live from the courtroom.
The disruption began when the judge directed the registrar to call the case between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Nnamdi Kanu. Before the registrar could proceed, Kanu suddenly stood up and declared: “My lord, there is no judgment today because we have joined issues in the matter.”
Justice Omotosho immediately cautioned him, saying: “Defendant, there is decorum in court. Let the registrar call the matters accordingly.”
The situation escalated when the judge ordered that Kanu’s microphone be taken away. Kanu refused to comply, prompting Justice Omotosho to briefly exit the courtroom. He later returned, and proceedings resumed.
According to TNG, the Federal High Court was at the time delivering judgment in the case, with several media organisations — including NTA, Channels TV, AIT, and TVC — present in court to capture the live transmission.
It will be recalled that Justice Omotosho had on November 7 fixed today’s date for judgment, after Kanu’s defence was foreclosed following his refusal to open his defence on the grounds that the charges were filed under a repealed law.
Justice Omotosho ruled that Kanu had exhausted the six days allocated to him to present his defence, and therefore waived his right to do so. He noted that he would have extended the time if Kanu had shown willingness to open his defence.
The judge further held that Kanu’s refusal to utilise the opportunity given to him meant he could not claim he was denied his right to a fair hearing.
Meanwhile, Kanu has since been removed from the courtroom, and Justice Omotosho has commenced delivering the long-awaited judgment.
Details shortly…
