Dare Babalola
The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned separatist group Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was stalled on Thursday after he unexpectedly sacked his legal team, delaying his defence.
Nnamdi Kanu was set to commence his defence in the ongoing terrorism trial on Thursday.
However, when the case was called, Kanu Agabi (SAN), who led Kanu’s legal team, announced their decision to withdraw from the case, alongside other Senior Advocates in the team.
Kanu Agabi, the lead counsel, explained that the legal team is withdrawing because “the defendant has taken this case back from us and we respect that.”
Other Senior Advocates of Nigeria withdrawing from the case include Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Joseph Akubo (SAN), Paul Erokoro (SAN), Emeka Etiaba (SAN) and one other.
After Agabi’s announcement, Justice James Omotosho asked Kanu, who was in the dock, for his response. Kanu confirmed that he had dismissed his lawyers and informed the court that he was prepared to represent himself.
Justice Omotosho then, ordered other members of the defendant’s legal team who were in court, except the SANs to vacate the courtroom immediately.
The judge then, turned to the defendant and asked him to open his case.
Kanu commenced arguing about the jurisdiction of the court to further conduct his trial.
He was subsequently overruled by the judge, who insisted that he must proceed with his defence.
At that point, Ikpeazu intervened and drew the attention of the court to the fact that their (Kanu’s lawyers’) withdrawal took effect on the morning of Thursday.
He prayed the court to grant Kanu few time to gather his thoughts and compose himself for the task ahead.
Prosecuting lawyer did not object, following which Justice Omotosho adjourned till Friday, October 24 for Kanu to open his defence.
