The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday convicted the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, on count one of the terrorism charges against him after ruling that he failed to present a defence.

Justice James Omotosho held that the prosecution’s evidence stood unchallenged because Kanu refused to properly defend himself and was earlier removed from the courtroom for repeated unruly behaviour.

“This court holds that the prosecution has established count one beyond reasonable doubt. The defendant is hereby convicted,” the judge ruled.

Earlier, tension filled the courtroom as Kanu protested after the judge dismissed his latest bail application. Kanu accused the court of delivering a “kangaroo” decision and demanded to see the law preventing his release on bail during trial. Justice Omotosho repeatedly asked him to “compose himself” before ordering security operatives to escort him out.

The court noted that Kanu failed to open his defence within the six days earlier allocated, despite already filing a final written address. Kanu, however, insisted he had not forfeited his right to make final submissions, causing further disruption.

Kanu also argued that the charges against him were invalid due to the repeal of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act and asked the court to strike out the case and order his release.

Despite filing a fresh application at the Court of Appeal to stop the judgment, the appellate court has not fixed a hearing date or issued any orders.