Following the sudden sacking of his legal team on Thursday, the planned defence by detained leader of the proscribed separatist group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu has been stalled Kanu was scheduled to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial on Thursday. When the case was called, Kanu Agabi (SAN), who had led Kanu’s legal team until Thursday, announced his decision, with other Senior Advocates in the team, to withdraw from the case.
Agabi explained that the reason for their withdrawal was because the defendant has taken this case back adding that they respect his opinion. He gave the name of the other SANs, who are withdrawing to include: Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Joseph Akubo (SAN), Paul Erokoro (SAN), Emeka Etiaba (SAN) and one other. Following Agabi’s announcement, Justice James Omotosho turned to Kanu, who was in the dock, for his response.
Kanu confirmed sacking all his lawyers and told the court that he was willing and ready to conduct his case by himself. Justice Omotosho then, ordered other members of the defendant’s legal team who were in court, except the SANs to vacate the courtroom immediately. Kanu commenced arguing about the jurisdiction of the court to further conduct his trial. He was subsequently overruled by the judge, who insisted that he most proceed with his defence.
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At that point, Ikpeazu intervened and drew the attention of the court to the fact that their (Kanu’s lawyers’) withdrawal took effect on the morning of Thursday. He prayed the court to grant Kanu few time to gather his thoughts and compose himself for the task ahead. Prosecuting lawyer did not object, following which Justice Omotosho adjourned till Friday, October 24 for Kanu to open his defence.
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