BREAKING: Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyers Withdraw From Case

In a dramatic twist in the ongoing trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, his team of lawyers — led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN) — has withdrawn from representing him before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Agabi announced the decision during Thursday’s court session, informing Justice James Omotosho that Kanu had chosen to take over his own defence.

“All the Senior Advocates of Nigeria on record for the defendant are withdrawing from further representation,” Agabi told the court.

Confirming the development, Kanu told the judge that he would be representing himself for now, though he might reconsider the decision at a later stage.

Justice Omotosho asked whether the court should assign counsel to assist him, but Kanu declined, insisting that he would personally handle his defence.

When given the floor to open his case, Kanu challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the charges against him — which include seven counts of terrorism — were politically motivated and should not stand.

The court had earlier scheduled six consecutive hearing days beginning October 23, to allow the IPOB leader to open and close his defence.

Kanu has also listed several high-profile figures as witnesses, including former AGF Abubakar Malami, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), among others.