Nnamdi Kanu confirmed dismissing his legal team and expressed readiness to represent himself in court.
The defense of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was delayed due to the abrupt withdrawal of his legal team during his ongoing terrorism trial.
Kanu was set to begin his defense. However, Kanu Agabi (SAN), who led Kanu’s legal team, announced their withdrawal, alongside other Senior Advocates including Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Joseph Akubo (SAN), Paul Erokoro (SAN), and Emeka Etiaba (SAN). Agabi stated, “The defendant has taken this case back from us, and we respect that.”
Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the case, asked Kanu for his response. Kanu confirmed he had sacked his lawyers and was prepared to represent himself. The judge ordered the remaining non-SAN members of Kanu’s legal team to leave the courtroom.
When instructed to open his defense, Kanu began arguing about the court’s jurisdiction but was overruled by Justice Omotosho, who directed him to proceed with his defense. Onyechi Ikpeazu intervened, noting the withdrawal occurred that morning and requested time for Kanu to prepare. The prosecution did not object, and Justice Omotosho adjourned the case to Friday for Kanu to begin his defense.
