The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that he will personally conduct his defense in his ongoing terrorism trial.
Kanu is currently standing trial on a seven-count charge brought against him by the Federal Government.
Kanu’s Lawyers Withdraw from Case
The development unfolded on Thursday morning when his lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN) a former Attorney-General of the Federation, announced that he and his legal team would withdraw from representing Kanu.
When the case was called, Agabi informed the court that the IPOB leader had chosen to handle his own defense, prompting other Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) on the defense team to also withdraw their appearances.
Kanu Confirms Self-Representation
Confirming the decision, Kanu told the court he would represent himself for now, though he left open the possibility of engaging new lawyers later.
Judge Offers Counsel Kanu Declines
Presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, offered to appoint a lawyer to assist Kanu, but the defendant politely declined.
During the session, Kanu also made an oral submission, arguing that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear his case.