We Respect Nnamdi Kanu’s Decision to Defend Himself, Says Ex-Lead Counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN)

Former lead counsel to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), has said that his legal team fully respects Kanu’s decision to personally conduct his own defence before the court.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday shortly after formally withdrawing from the case at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Agabi confirmed that the IPOB leader had opted to represent himself, emphasizing that the move was well within his constitutional rights.

Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, stated that while his team had diligently represented Kanu up to this stage, they would honor his decision to take full charge of his defence.

“We respect his choice and wish him the very best as he proceeds to defend himself,” Agabi said. “Every Nigerian accused of an offence has the constitutional right to either be represented by counsel or to appear in person, and Mr. Kanu has exercised that right.”

During Thursday’s court proceedings, Kanu informed the trial judge of his intention to defend himself, a development that prompted his legal representatives to formally withdraw from the case.

The Federal Government is prosecuting Kanu on multiple charges bordering on terrorism and alleged incitement, accusations he has consistently denied.

Kanu’s decision to represent himself has sparked mixed reactions among legal observers and supporters, with some praising the move as an assertion of confidence, while others view it as a risky strategy given the complexity of the charges.

The case was subsequently adjourned to a later date for the continuation of trial proceedings.