Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has fixed November 20 for judgment in the terrorism trial of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.

The judge announced the date on Friday, ruling that Kanu had failed to open his defence despite being granted six separate days to do so. Justice Omotosho held that Kanu could not claim denial of fair hearing when he repeatedly refused to utilise the opportunity provided.

Kanu, who is conducting his own defence, had been directed to open his case on November 5 or be deemed to have waived that right. His refusal marked the fourth consecutive day he failed to address the charges after the prosecution closed its case and his no-case submission was dismissed.

The matter had previously been adjourned to November 4 for Kanu to file a final written address or begin his defence. However, at the resumed hearing, Kanu informed the court that he did not file the ordered address but instead submitted a motion and affidavit.

He insisted he would not enter any defence because, according to him, there was no valid charge under any existing law. He argued that he could not continue returning to DSS custody and demanded immediate release.

Prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) challenged the competence of Kanu’s fresh filings, urging the court not to indulge the defendant any further. He asked the court to treat the documents as Kanu’s final address and proceed directly to judgment.

In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that the newly filed documents were in order and would be considered at judgment. He added that since Kanu is not a lawyer, the court must give him reasonable opportunity to consult counsel.

The judge stressed that Kanu had been given ample time to present a defence and that any failure to do so was entirely his choice.

Judgment is scheduled for November 20.