In a dramatic turn at the Federal High Court, Abuja, IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu announced Thursday that he will defend himself in his ongoing trial, after his entire team of senior lawyers withdrew from the case.
Kanu Agabi, SAN, the lead counsel, alongside other senior advocates including Onyechi Ikpeazu, Joseph Akubo, Paul Erokoro, and Emeka Etiaba, formally stepped aside, citing the defendant’s decision to take control of his own defence.
Confirming the development in court, Kanu stated that while he would represent himself for now, he reserves the right to re-engage legal counsel later.
When the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, offered to assign a lawyer, Kanu declined.
Addressing the court orally, he argued that the court lacked jurisdiction over his trial, though the judge instructed him to proceed with his defence.
“A number of voices have been defending Nnamdi, and he has decided to conduct his defence himself. We respect his decision and wish him well,” Agabi told reporters outside the courtroom.
Following the withdrawal of the senior lawyers, Justice Omotosho ordered the remaining legal team members, except for non-SAN associates, to vacate the courtroom.
Kanu then began outlining his defence strategy, requesting time to prepare adequately.
The court granted an adjournment to Friday, October 24, to allow him to commence his formal defence.
In a motion personally filed earlier this week, Kanu indicated that he intends to call 23 witnesses, categorised as “ordinary but material” and “vital and compellable” witnesses under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.
Among those listed as compellable are former and current political and security figures, including General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), General Tukur Buratai (rtd), Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma, FCTA Minister Nyesom Nwike, Dave Umahi, former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, former Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, and ex-Director General of NIA Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.
Kanu’s motion also indicated his intention to provide sworn statements from all voluntary witnesses and assured the court that no unnecessary delay would occur.
He emphasised that his defence aims to present both a factual and political context to the allegations against him.
The announcement coincided with a separate ruling by a magistrate court in Abuja, which ordered the remand of Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others, following protests related to the trial.
Those detained face charges including criminal conspiracy, disobedience of lawful orders, and inciting public disturbance.
As the trial resumes Friday, attention will focus on Kanu’s self-representation, the unfolding witness testimonies, and the broader implications for the ongoing prosecution of IPOB members.
