Nnamdi Kanu Fires Entire Legal Team, Will Represent Himself In Court

Detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu has terminated his entire legal team and announced his intention to represent himself in his ongoing trial.

During the resumed hearing on Thursday, Kanu informed the court that he was ready to conduct his own defence. Following this, all senior advocates in his team, led by Kanu Agabi SAN, formally withdrew from the case.

Agabi stated that the team, which included Onyechi Ikpeazu, Paul Erokoro, Joseph Akubo, and Emeka Etiaba, respected Kanu’s decision, explaining, “The defendant has taken this case back from us and we respect that.”

Kanu then addressed the court from the dock, questioning the court’s jurisdiction to continue the trial. Justice James Omotosho sought confirmation from Kanu that he would represent himself, which he affirmed. The judge ordered the remaining members of his legal team, excluding the SANs, to leave the courtroom.

As Kanu began challenging the court’s authority, Ikpeazu requested that he be given time to gather his thoughts, noting that the withdrawal of the senior advocates took effect that morning. The prosecution raised no objection.

Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the trial to Friday, October 24, for Kanu to officially open his defence.