In a dramatic turn of events at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), announced that he would represent himself in his ongoing treason and terrorism trial, following the withdrawal of his entire legal team.
During Thursday’s proceedings, his lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, formally applied to withdraw from the case. Sources indicate that all the senior advocates on Kanu’s defense, including Agabi, have pulled out.
Kanu confirmed the development from the dock, stating he had lost confidence in his lawyers and preferred to take over his own defense. When offered legal assistance by the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, he declined the offer.
In his initial submissions, Kanu challenged the jurisdiction of the court to try him, asserting that the court lacks authority over his case.
He also informed the court that he plans to call two categories of witnesses: “ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable witnesses,” citing Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011. Among those he named are prominent political and security figures, including Theophilus Danjuma, Nyesom Wike, Dave Umahi, Abubakar Malami, and Tukur Buratai.
Kanu requested 90 days to conclude his defense, citing the number and stature of the witnesses he intends to present.
The trial, which has endured years of delays, has already seen multiple changes of presiding judges. Kanu was re-arrested in 2021 after previously fleeing the country following a bail in 2017. He remains in custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
As the court navigates this new phase of the case — with Kanu defending himself — legal observers warn that self-representation in a complex terrorism trial carries significant risks. The coming days will reveal whether Kanu’s bold decision will strengthen his narrative or make his legal battle more arduous.
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