Kanu told the court that he could not proceed because he had
not been given access to his case file to enable him familiarise himself with
its contents and prepare adequately for his defence.

The development came a day after Kanu dismissed his legal
team, led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi, SAN, opting
instead to represent himself.

When the case was called, prosecuting counsel Adegboyega
Awomolo, SAN, reminded the court that the matter was fixed for Kanu to begin
his defence.

But taking the stand, Kanu explained that those meant to
deliver his case file to him in the custody of the Department of State
Services, DSS, could not gain access to him.

He, therefore, prayed the court for a short adjournment till
Monday, October 27, to enable him access the case file and prepare for the
defence.

Kanu also informed the court that he expected witnesses from
several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Kenya and
Ethiopia, and sought an order allowing him to meet visitors over the weekend to
facilitate his preparation.

Awomolo did not oppose the application, prompting Justice
Omotosho to direct the DSS to permit Kanu to receive visitors on Saturday and
Sunday.

The judge adjourned the case till October 27 for the
defendant to open his defence, warning that the six days allocated to Kanu to
present his defence would not be extended.