A dramatic scene unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday when Justice James Omotosho ordered security operatives to remove the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, from the courtroom. The directive came after Kanu repeatedly interrupted proceedings, insisting that the court could not deliver judgment without first allowing him to file a written address in his terrorism trial.
Kanu’s persistent demands forced the court to halt proceedings temporarily, as he questioned where the law provided that he was barred from submitting a written address. His loud objections prompted security personnel to escort him out to restore order.
Before the disruption, Justice Omotosho had delivered a ruling dismissing fresh motions filed by the IPOB leader, noting that they raised issues previously argued during the trial. The court also rejected Kanu’s request to refer the matter to the Court of Appeal, citing Section 306 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, which prohibits the stay of proceedings in criminal matters.
Similarly, the judge turned down his application for bail, stating that some of the concerns raised would be addressed in the final judgment.
However, as the judge attempted to begin reading the judgment, Kanu again objected, arguing loudly that the court lacked jurisdiction to proceed without admitting his written submissions. His refusal to yield ultimately led to his removal from the courtroom by security operatives.
The case, which has drawn national and international attention, continues to stir strong legal and political debate as it approaches a decisive stage.