The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), until Friday, October 24, after he dismissed his entire team of Senior Advocates.
Kanu informed the court that he would be defending himself, despite the judge’s offer to assign a new lawyer.
Kanu’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, announced his withdrawal from the case, citing Kanu’s insistence on taking full control of his case.
Other senior advocates on the team, including Onyechi Ikpeazu, Joseph Akubo, Paul Erokoro, and Emeka Etiaba, also withdrew from the case.
When asked if he wished for the court to assign him a new counsel, Kanu declined, stating he preferred to proceed on his own terms. Justice James Omotosho then ordered all members of the dismissed legal team to vacate the courtroom before directing Kanu to open his defence.
However, Kanu began by challenging the court’s jurisdiction to continue his trial, which was overruled by the judge. The court then adjourned the case to enable Kanu to prepare for his defence.
The IPOB leader faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony and terrorism-related offences, connected to his leadership of the group and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence.
