The decision followed the dismissal of three fresh motions filed by Kanu, which the court held to be without merit.

Tensions rose during the ruling when Kanu interjected, insisting that the court could not move forward because he had not filed his final written address.

Raising his voice, he challenged the legality of the charges and accused Justice Omotosho of bias and misunderstanding the law.

Following a brief recess, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the court to continue the proceedings without the defendant, arguing that his behaviour amounted to deliberate disruption. Justice Omotosho agreed, stating that although a defendant has a constitutional right to be present during trial, persistent misconduct can justify conducting proceedings in their absence.

“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,” he said, adding that the court “is a temple of God” and must maintain order.

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He noted that Kanu had displayed similar conduct on several previous occasions and had already indicated that he would not present a defence. The day’s session, the judge said, was scheduled for judgment and possible sentencing.

Kanu was subsequently removed from the courtroom, and Justice Omotosho continued with the delivery of the ruling.

Source: Punch