In a dramatic turn during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu dismissed his entire legal team in open court, declaring that he would henceforth represent himself in his ongoing terrorism trial.
The move was confirmed by reports from Daily Post that Kanu asked all counsel including prominent Senior Advocates such as Kanu Agabi, to withdraw and vacate the courtroom.
When the case was called, lead counsel Agabi informed the court that his team would no longer represent Kanu, stating that the defendant had “taken back” control of the case. Kanu confirmed the decision, affirming his readiness to conduct his own defense, though he indicated that he might change course later.
Justice James Omotosho responded by asking Kanu whether he would like an assigned counsel, but Kanu declined the offer. The judge directed non-Senior Advocates in the legal team to leave the court and ordered Kanu to open his defense immediately.
Kanu began his presentation by challenging the court’s jurisdiction to try him, a motion that was overruled by the judge, who insisted that he proceed with substantive defense. A senior SAN intervened, noting that the lawyers’ withdrawal took effect earlier in the day and requested time for Kanu to compose himself. The court granted a short adjournment, pushing further proceedings to Friday, October 24, 2025.
In statements following the court session, some observers speculated that Kanu’s decision may be a strategic move, intended to avoid being constrained by counsel’s legal strategy or to create public sympathy. Others cautioned that self-representation in a trial involving complex criminal and constitutional issues could expose him to legal challenges.
As of now, Kanu is proceeding alone, with no formal legal team, and the court stands ready to continue the trial under those conditions.
