Nnamdi Kanu Opts for Self-Representation as Lawyers Withdraw from His Trial

The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, surprised the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday when he announced that he would defend himself following the withdrawal of his entire legal team.

Lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), informed the court that he and other Senior Advocates of Nigeria on the defence team had applied to withdraw from the case. He explained that the defendant had “taken the case back from them” effectively ending their representation.

Confirming the development, Kanu told the court, “I will be representing myself for now” adding that the situation “might change later.”

When the presiding judge asked whether he wanted the court to assign a lawyer to him, Kanu declined, choosing instead to handle his defence personally.

Proceeding to argue orally on his own behalf, the IPOB leader maintained that the court lacked the jurisdiction to try him.

The dramatic development marks a new phase in the long-running trial of the separatist leader, who faces charges bordering on treasonable felony and terrorism-related offences.

Kanu’s decision to represent himself follows years of legal battles since his re-arrest and extradition to Nigeria in 2021. His trial, which has repeatedly drawn national and international attention, continues to stir conversations about due process, human rights, and the limits of political dissent in Nigeria.

Observers in court described the moment as tense yet composed, as Kanu calmly addressed the bench without legal counsel by his side. The case was later adjourned for further proceedings.