The trial of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, took another dramatic twist on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, as the separatist leader abruptly dismissed his entire legal team and announced his decision to personally defend himself.
Kanu, who was expected to open his defence on the terrorism charges filed against him by the Federal Government, stunned the court when he declared that he no longer wished to be represented by his lawyers.
When the case was called, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), who had been leading the defence team, informed the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, that he and other Senior Advocates of Nigeria on the case had decided to withdraw.
Agabi told the court:
“The defendant has taken this case back from us, and we respect that.”
He went on to list other members of the legal team who withdrew from the matter, including Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Joseph Akubo (SAN), Paul Erokoro (SAN), Emeka Etiaba (SAN), and one other Senior Advocate.
Following the announcement, Justice Omotosho turned to Kanu, who was in the dock, to confirm the development.
In response, Kanu stated emphatically that he had sacked all his lawyers and was ready to represent himself.
“I am willing and ready to conduct my case by myself,” he told the court.
The judge then directed all other members of the defence team—apart from the withdrawing Senior Advocates—to vacate the courtroom immediately.
Turning to the IPOB leader, Justice Omotosho ordered him to proceed with his defence.
Kanu, however, began by contesting the jurisdiction of the court to continue with his trial, a move that was swiftly overruled by the judge, who insisted that he must open his defence as directed.
At this point, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), who was still present in court, intervened and reminded the court that their withdrawal only took effect that same morning. He appealed for the court to give Kanu some time to reorganize and prepare for the next phase of the trial.
“We pray the court to grant him time to gather his thoughts and compose himself for the task ahead,” Ikpeazu pleaded.
After hearing the submissions, Justice Omotosho adjourned the case to October 24 for Kanu to begin his defence.
The unexpected courtroom drama marks another major turning point in the long-running case that has drawn national and international attention.
