Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has announced the dismissal of his legal team, led by Chief Mike Agabi, SAN, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Kanu, who is facing trial for alleged terrorism, informed Justice James Omotosho of his decision to defend himself. Following this development, all senior advocates on the team, including former Attorney-General of the Federation, Agabi, withdrew from the case.
Kanu, addressing the court from the dock, challenged the jurisdiction of the court to try him. He had earlier filed a motion, personally signed on October 21, listing several high-profile individuals as witnesses in his trial. The motion, which requests a witness summons/subpoena, includes former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and other dignitaries as “compellable witnesses.” These witnesses include Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike; former Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Theophilus Danjuma; and former Chief of Army Staff, retired Gen. Tukur Buratai. Other listed witnesses are Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and the immediate-past Governor of Abia, Okezie Ikpeazu.
In the motion, Kanu undertakes to provide the sworn statements of all voluntary witnesses to the court and notify the prosecution within a reasonable time. Prior to the hearing, Kanu had held a private consultation with his legal team at the Federal High Court in Abuja, as ordered by Justice James Omotosho. The IPOB leader, who was brought to court by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), met with his legal team to discuss his case.
The development is significant, as Kanu’s trial has garnered considerable attention and sparked intense debate about the IPOB’s activities and the Nigerian government’s response. The case has also raised concerns about the rights of the accused and the rule of law in Nigeria. As the trial progresses, it remains to be seen how Kanu’s decision to defend himself will impact the outcome of the case. The next steps in the trial will be closely watched, both within Nigeria and internationally, as the situation continues to unfold.