The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been adjourned until Friday, October 24, after he abruptly dismissed his entire team of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) during a tense court session at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Kanu told the court he would now be representing himself, rejecting the judge’s offer to appoint fresh counsel on his behalf.
Kanu Rejects Legal Representation, Challenges Court Jurisdiction
Lead counsel Kanu Agabi, SAN, announced his withdrawal from the case after his client insisted on personally conducting his own defence.
Other senior advocates, including Onyechi Ikpeazu, Joseph Akubo, Paul Erokoro, and Emeka Etiaba, equally withdrew from the proceedings following Kanu’s decision.
When Justice James Omotosho asked if he would prefer a new lawyer, Kanu declined, saying he wished to proceed “on his own terms.” The judge subsequently directed all members of the dismissed legal team to leave the courtroom before asking the IPOB leader to begin his defence.
Kanu immediately challenged the court’s jurisdiction to continue his trial, but his objection was dismissed. Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter to allow Kanu more time to prepare.
The IPOB leader is facing multiple charges bordering on treasonable felony and terrorism-related offences linked to his leadership of the secessionist group and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network. If found guilty, he risks a lengthy prison sentence.
