Former AGF, Lawyers Withdraw from Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

Former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Kanu Agabi (SAN), and other senior lawyers withdrew from representing detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, in his ongoing terrorism trial.

On Thursday,Agabi, who has been leading Kanu’s defence, informed Justice James Omotosho that the legal team was stepping down following Kanu’s decision to take back control of his case.

“The defendant has opted to handle the matter differently, and we will be stepping aside accordingly,” Agabi told the court.

His announcement prompted other Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) in the defence team to also withdraw from the proceedings.

Confirming the move, Kanu told the court that he would represent himself for now, although he may reconsider later.

When Justice Omotosho asked whether he wanted the court to assign a lawyer to him, Kanu declined, insisting he would proceed on his own.

During the session, the IPOB leader also challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing orally that it lacked the authority to try him.

Justice Omotosho had previously scheduled six consecutive days, starting October 23, for Kanu to open and close his defence as part of the accelerated hearing order.

The IPOB leader is facing a seven-count terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.