Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday began delivering judgment in the long-standing terrorism case against the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, in his absence after declaring his conduct in court “unruly.”

The judge ruled that the proceedings would continue without Kanu, moments after dismissing three fresh applications filed by the defendant, which the court described as lacking merit.

Kanu, visibly agitated, interrupted the proceedings, insisting the court had no legal right to continue the case since he had not filed his final written address. Raising his voice, he challenged the judge, saying:

“Which law states that you can charge me on an unwritten law? Show me. Omotosho, where is the law? Any judgment declared in this Court is a complete rubbish.”

He further accused Justice Omotosho of bias and claimed the judge lacked proper understanding of legal procedure.

After a short break, lead prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the court to proceed with the judgment, arguing that Kanu’s persistent disruption constituted misconduct. Justice Omotosho agreed, noting that while a defendant has the constitutional right to be present during trial, that right can be forfeited when the defendant behaves in a way that obstructs court proceedings.

“If a defendant misconducts himself or acts in an unruly manner during the course of his trial, his trial can be conducted in his absence,” the judge ruled, adding that the courtroom is “a temple of God” and must be treated with decorum.

Justice Omotosho also noted that Thursday’s sitting was scheduled for judgment and possible sentencing, and that Kanu had previously indicated he would not present any defence. He further recalled that the defendant had displayed similar disruptive behaviour on multiple prior occasions.

Following the order, security operatives removed Kanu from the courtroom, allowing Justice Omotosho to proceed with the delivery of the judgment.