Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has decided to represent himself in court after his legal team, led by former Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, withdrew from his case. The development was announced during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, October 23, 2025. Agabi informed the court that Kanu had taken his case file from him and other senior lawyers, opting to defend himself against the seven-count terrorism-related charges brought by the Federal Government.
Kanu, who has been in detention since 2021, confirmed his decision from the dock, rejecting an offer from Justice James Omotosho to provide him with a lawyer. In his first submission as his own counsel, Kanu challenged the court’s jurisdiction to try him. He also filed a motion dated October 21, 2025, requesting a 90-day period to open and conclude his defense, citing the need to call 23 high-profile witnesses to prove his innocence. The list includes notable figures such as Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, former Attorney General Abubakar Malami, and former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd).
Other proposed witnesses include Minister of Works Dave Umahi, former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, former Defence Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), and former heads of the National Intelligence Agency and Department of State Services.
Kanu described these individuals as vital witnesses and urged the court to issue subpoenas to compel their attendance, arguing their testimonies are essential to establishing his innocence. He also indicated he may call additional witnesses not listed in the motion. The request to extend the defense period from the initially allotted six days stems from the number and prominence of the witnesses he intends to summon.
