Gideon Maxwell
October 23, 2025
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has decided to represent himself in his ongoing terrorism trial after his entire legal team withdrew from the case.
The development occurred on October 23, 2025, during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, informed the court that the defendant had taken over his defense, prompting the withdrawal of all Senior Advocates from the legal team .
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the trial to Friday, October 24, 2025, to allow Kanu to prepare and begin presenting his defense against the seven-count terrorism charges brought by the federal government.
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The charges allege that Kanu incited violence and killings in southeastern Nigeria to achieve the independence of the region as a sovereign Biafra state.
The trial has attracted significant attention, with protests erupting in Abuja on October 20, 2025, demanding Kanu’s release. Security forces responded by deploying tear gas and blocking major roads to suppress the demonstrations.
Kanu’s supporters argue that his detention is politically motivated and seek the quashing of the terrorism charges.
As the trial progresses, all eyes are on Kanu’s self-representation and the unfolding legal proceedings.
