Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has agreed to consult with his legal team before deciding whether to open his defense in the terrorism case brought against him by the Federal Government.

The decision followed repeated advice from Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, who urged Kanu to seek legal guidance amid his continued insistence that the charges against him are invalid.

The court adjourned the matter to November 7, marking the fourth consecutive postponement. Kanu, who dismissed his previous legal representation in October, has now named Nnaemeka Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Maxwell Okpara, and Mandela Umegborogu as his legal advisors.

Initially opting to represent himself, Kanu had submitted a list of 23 proposed witnesses, including high-profile figures such as Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. However, he later reversed course, arguing that the seven-count indictment was based on a repealed version of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Prohibition) Act, which he claims renders the charges legally void in light of Supreme Court guidance.

The prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the court to enforce its September 26 ruling, which found a prima facie case against Kanu after the government closed its case on June 19 with five witnesses. “Urge the court to enforce the order,” Awomolo stated.

Justice Omotosho, while acknowledging the delays, emphasized the importance of fairness. “I’ll bend backward again for fairness,” he said, granting Kanu time to consult his lawyers.

Kanu’s failure to open his defense since the prima facie ruling has stalled proceedings, with the defendant citing missing case documents allegedly withheld by former legal representatives, including ex-Attorney General Kanu Agabi (SAN).

The case, which began in 2021, centers on allegations of treasonable felony and terrorism linked to IPOB activities. As the trial resumes Friday, the court is expected to determine whether Kanu will proceed with his defense or raise further legal objections.