In a significant development in the ongoing treason trial of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, his entire legal team, including all Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) representing him, has withdrawn from the case. The defense team’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, formally applied to withdraw legal representation, stating that Kanu has chosen to defend himself in court.
The withdrawal was confirmed by Kanu during the Thursday session at the Federal High Court in Abuja before Justice James Omotosho. Despite offers from the court to assign him legal representation, Kanu declined and announced he would represent himself, though he left open the possibility of re-engaging lawyers later.
Defending himself orally, Kanu challenged the court’s jurisdiction to try him, reiterating his position amid what he described as an ongoing struggle for justice. The case that began in 2015 has seen several delays and significant attention nationally and internationally.This trial marks the first time Kanu will personally present his defense after nearly a decade since his initial arraignment.
Therefore, as the court proceedings continue, Kanu has requested 90 days to conclude his defense, citing the complexity and volume of evidence and witnesses. The trial is set to proceed for consecutive days until his defense is complete.
The case remains highly sensitive, with the Nigerian government accusing Kanu of inciting violence and leading secessionist efforts in the country’s South-East region. Kanu was rearrested in 2021 after fleeing following bail and has been held in custody since.
Earlier court sessions featured testimonies from operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the current hearing is poised to see Kanu challenge these allegations directly in court.Kanu’s latest move to self-representation signals a critical stage in the politically charged trial that has captured the attention of local and international observers.
