Defence Counsel Tenders Apology on Behalf of IPOB Leader
Abuja, Nigeria – The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday for a hearing in his ongoing trial on charges of treason. This time, the case is being presided over by a new judge, Justice James Omotosho, following the reassignment of the matter.
The defence team also saw a change, with Kanu Agabi (SAN) now leading Kanu’s legal representation, while Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) continues to head the prosecution team.
Defence Tenders Apology
Shortly after the court session commenced, Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), addressed the court with an apology on behalf of his client. Agabi expressed regret over Kanu’s previous conduct, particularly his verbal attacks on Justice Binta Nyako, the former judge handling the case, as well as his legal team and the prosecution.
“We are now at a place where we must apologize to Justice Binta Nyako, the prosecution team, and his lawyers,” Agabi stated. He explained that Kanu’s anger, which had persisted for a long time, led to the unjustified attacks.
Agabi also extended apologies to the prosecution team led by Awomolo and the chairman of the Body of Benchers, emphasizing that Kanu is a “good man” and that differences in opinion should not lead to destruction. “We must strive to save and not destroy,” he pleaded.
Prosecution Responds
In response, the prosecution team, led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), accepted the apology and expressed their commitment to ensuring an expeditious hearing of the case. Awomolo acknowledged the emotional toll the case has taken on Kanu and the intense public interest it has generated.
Judge Acknowledges Strain of Prolonged Trial
Justice Omotosho, the new presiding judge, noted that the lengthy trial, which began in 2015, may have taken a significant toll on Kanu. He pointed out that Kanu was 47 years old when first arraigned and is now 57, with his future still uncertain.
“This may have led him to make certain comments which were not right,” Justice Omotosho observed. He also tendered an apology to the prosecution on behalf of Kanu, emphasizing the need for fairness and decorum in the judicial process.
Background of the Case
Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of IPOB, a group advocating for the secession of southeastern Nigeria, has been in detention since his arrest in 2021. He faces charges of treason and other offenses related to his alleged involvement in activities deemed threatening to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The case has drawn widespread attention, with supporters of Kanu calling for his release and critics accusing him of inciting violence. The reassignment of the case to a new judge and the change in defence counsel mark a new phase in the protracted legal battle.
