A Federal High Court in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, has refused application for stay of proceedings filed by the self-styled leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.

Mr Kanu had asked the court to stay proceedings pending the determination of his appeal before the appellate court.

The trial judge, Justice James Tsoho, ruled that the application did not follow due process and was not based on the facts of the case.

He said he would continue to hear the case on a day-to-day basis until a higher court orders a stay.

The trial has been adjourned to June 20.

Mr Nnamdi Kanu is standing trial on a three-count charge of criminal conspiracy, intimidation and belonging to an unlawful society.

He has pleaded guilty to the charges.

On February 19, a Federal High Court in Abuja turned down the request by the Federal Government, to allow its witnesses wear masks during the trial of the self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mr Kanu.

Justice Tsoho said the prosecution did not furnish the court with enough evidence to show that its witnesses were in danger, other than a mere mention by the prosecutor that his witnesses are scared for their lives.

•Photo shows Nnamdi Kanu.