The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), until Friday, October 24, after he dismissed his entire team of Senior Advocates.
The courtroom was thrown into surprise when Kanu’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, announced his withdrawal alongside other prominent Senior Advocates, including Onyechi Ikpeazu, Joseph Akubo, Paul Erokoro, and Emeka Etiaba. Agabi informed the court that their decision followed Kanu’s insistence on taking back full control of his case.
Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the case, turned directly to Kanu for confirmation. From the dock, the IPOB leader declared that he had indeed dismissed his lawyers and was prepared to represent himself. When asked if he wished for the court to assign him new counsel, Kanu firmly declined.
Following this, Justice Omotosho ordered the remaining members of the defence team to vacate the courtroom and invited Kanu to open his defence. However, Kanu began by challenging the court’s jurisdiction to continue the trial. The judge overruled him, insisting that the case must proceed.
As the proceedings became tense, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, stood to remind the court that the team’s withdrawal had only taken effect that morning. He appealed to the judge to grant Kanu sufficient time to gather his thoughts and prepare for self-representation. The prosecution did not oppose the request.
Justice Omotosho agreed to the plea and adjourned the case until Friday, October 24, when Kanu is expected to formally open his defence.
The IPOB leader faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony and terrorism-related offences, connected to his leadership of the group and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
