The trial of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has been adjourned till Friday, October 24, after he suddenly sacked his entire team of lawyers on Thursday.
Kanu, who is facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja, was expected to open his defence today. However, the court session took a dramatic turn when his lead counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), announced the withdrawal of the entire defence team from the case.
Agabi, addressing the court, said their decision to withdraw was based on Kanu’s choice to personally take over his case.
“The defendant has taken this case back from us, and we respect that,” he told the court.
Other Senior Advocates who withdrew from the case include Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Joseph Akubo (SAN), Paul Erokoro (SAN), Emeka Etiaba (SAN), and one other lawyer.
When Justice James Omotosho asked for Kanu’s response, the IPOB leader confirmed that he had dismissed all his lawyers and would represent himself. The judge immediately ordered all remaining members of the defence team, except the Senior Advocates, to vacate the courtroom.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the judge invited Kanu to open his defence, but he began by questioning the court’s jurisdiction to continue the trial. Justice Omotosho, however, overruled the objection and directed him to proceed with his defence.
At this point, Ikpeazu (SAN) appealed to the court, explaining that their withdrawal took effect earlier in the day. He requested that Kanu be given some time to compose himself and prepare for the next phase of the trial.
The prosecution did not oppose the request. Consequently, Justice Omotosho adjourned the case till Friday, October 24, 2025, to allow Kanu to begin his defence.
Mediaplusng.com reports that Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since 2021, following his rearrest and extradition to Nigeria. His trial has drawn both local and international attention, as supporters continue to call for his release and a fair judicial process.
