In a dramatic twist in the ongoing trial of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, the separatist leader on Thursday announced that he had sacked his entire legal team and would henceforth defend himself in court.
The decision, which took both the prosecution and observers by surprise, was made public during his appearance before the Federal High Court in Abuja. His lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), formally announced the team’s withdrawal, stating that his client had decided to take full charge of his defense.
“I have decided to represent myself,” Kanu told the court, insisting that he no longer had confidence in any external representation. He also challenged the jurisdiction of the court to try him on charges bordering on treason and terrorism, maintaining that the proceedings were politically motivated.
The courtroom, packed with journalists, security operatives, and sympathizers, became tense as the judge confirmed that the defense counsel had indeed withdrawn from the case. Despite the unexpected turn, the presiding judge assured that Kanu’s constitutional right to self-representation would be respected.
Nnamdi Kanu, who was first arrested in 2015 and later extradited from Kenya in 2021, has faced multiple charges filed by the federal government over his agitation for the creation of an independent Biafran state. His group, IPOB, was declared a terrorist organization by the Nigerian government in 2017.
Legal analysts say Kanu’s decision to personally defend himself could significantly alter the pace and tone of the trial. Some believe it signals frustration with his prolonged detention and the seeming slow pace of justice, while others view it as a bold political statement — an attempt to reclaim control of his narrative after years of legal tussle.
This development also raises questions about the fairness of the judicial process. Can a man standing trial for serious offenses like treason and terrorism effectively defend himself without legal expertise? Will this move prolong the proceedings or strengthen his claims of persecution?
As the next hearing approaches, all eyes remain on the Federal High Court, Abuja, where Kanu will, for the first time, stand alone — literally and legally — in defense of his cause.