In a dramatic turn of events at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has dismissed his entire legal team and announced that he will personally conduct his defense in his ongoing terrorism trial.
This development occurred on Thursday as the court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, was preparing to begin the defense stage of the case following an earlier order for accelerated hearing. Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), informed the court that his client had decided to “take back the case” and represent himself.
He further said that Kanu has the right to defend himself.
Addressing the court directly from the dock, Kanu confirmed his choice, stating, “I’ll act as my own lawyer for now.”
He declined the judge’s offer to appoint a new counsel, emphasizing his intent to take full control of his defense. Kanu immediately challenged the court’s jurisdiction over the case, arguing that the proceedings lacked legitimacy a recurring theme in his legal battles.
He requested a three-month adjournment to prepare his defense, arguing that the case qualified as a “capital trial” that warranted ample preparation time.
However, Justice Omotosho declined this request, noting that all preliminary objections had already been resolved.
The judge instructed Kanu to begin his defense on Friday, October 24, 2025, warning that failure to do so would result in the forfeiture of his right to present a defense.
The prosecution team, led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), did not object to the withdrawal of Kanu’s lawyers but urged the court to avoid any further delays in the trial.
The case was then adjourned to Friday for Kanu to commence his defense.
Background
Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since June 2021, following his controversial rendition from Kenya.
He is facing a seven-count amended charge related to treasonable felony and terrorism offenses tied to his activities as the leader of IPOB, which is advocating for the secession of Nigeria’s southeastern region.
On October 16, 2025, the court dismissed Kanu’s no-case submission and granted him six consecutive days, starting October 23, to open his defense.
Administrator and Writer
