Following Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's dismissal of his lead counsels, the Federal High Court Abuja was forced to adjourn proceedings until (tomorrow) Friday, October 24.
When the case was called, lead counsel Kanu Agabi, SAN, stunned the courtroom by announcing his withdrawal, along with other prominent Senior Advocates including Onyekachi Ikpeazu, Joseph Akubo, Paul Erokoro, and Emeka Etiaba. Agabi explained that the decision followed Kanu’s insistence on taking back control of his case.
Justice James Omotosho then turned directly to the defendant for confirmation. From the dock, Kanu declared that he had indeed dismissed his lawyers and was prepared to represent himself.
Asked if he wished the court to assign him new counsel, he firmly declined.
The judge ordered the remaining members of the defence team to vacate the courtroom and invited Kanu to open his defence. Instead, Kanu began by challenging the court’s jurisdiction to continue the trial. Justice Omotosho overruled him, insisting the case must proceed.
At that point, Onyekachi Ikpeazu, SAN, intervened to remind the court that their withdrawal had only taken effect that morning. He urged the judge to grant Kanu time to gather his thoughts and prepare for the task of self‑representation. The prosecution raised no objection.
Justice Omotosho agreed and adjourned the matter until Friday, October 24, when Kanu is expected to formally open his defence.
Kanu faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony and terrorism‑related offences, linked to his leadership of IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.
.webp)
0 Comments