The trial of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, stalled on Tuesday following his objection to the fresh charges of terrorism brought against him.
Consequently, the initial seven charges bordering on treasonable felony and terrorism increased to 15.
But during his trial on Tuesday, Kanu objected to the fresh charges.
The court is now expected to reconvene on Wednesday, January 19, for him to take his plea.
Earlier in the day, counsel to the IPOB Leader, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, disclosed that Human Rights Lawyer, Mike Ozekhome (SAN), will now lead the team of lawyers representing Kanu.
Addressing journalists after the proceedings Ozekhome said: “I have consulted with my client with regards to the 15-count charge. Some of the statements made by him that were not clear, which I pointed out to the court, the prosecution has been able to give me a copy that is more legible. With that, we will take the next step. No one is running from a plea being taken. But the point we made today, which the court appreciated, is that you can’t take plea to counts that have not been given to you.
“We were served about minutes to 10 am yesterday – a 15-count amended charge for a case coming up today, whereas the last date of adjournment was 2nd of December. So they had well-over one month to do that but they didn’t.
“I believe it was intended to frustrate today’s proceedings. In any event, this is the 6th time they are amending the charge. Each time they amend, I file a preliminary objection; they go back to re-amend.”
– Media Report