The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has resumed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, with fresh developments that could reshape the course of the case.
Kanu’s legal battle on charges of alleged treason is now before a new judge, Justice James Omotosho, following a shift in both the judicial panel and his legal representation.
In a notable twist, Kanu’s legal team has undergone a change, with renowned Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Kanu Agabi taking the lead as the defense counsel.
On the other side, the prosecution remains unchanged, with Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) continuing to represent the federal government.
The hearing began with Kanu’s new counsel, Chief Agabi, requesting the court’s permission to address the proceedings. In a rare and heartfelt moment, Agabi made an apology on behalf of his client, acknowledging the need for reconciliation.
He expressed regret for the past actions of Kanu, particularly the verbal attacks directed at Justice Binta Nyako and others involved in the case. “We are at a place where we must apologize,” Agabi stated, noting that Kanu had been dealing with long-standing frustrations that may have fueled his outbursts.
Agabi also extended his apologies to the prosecution team, led by Awomolo, as well as to the chairman of the Body of Benchers, emphasizing the high regard in which they hold the judiciary and legal community.
He defended his client, asserting that Kanu is essentially a good man who, like anyone, is capable of making mistakes. “We must allow space for errors and focus on saving, not destroying,” Agabi added.
In response, the prosecution acknowledged the apology and expressed their commitment to ensuring the case proceeds swiftly. Awomolo reassured the court that they would work to expedite the hearing process, while also acknowledging the intense emotions surrounding the case.
Justice Omotosho, in his remarks, acknowledged the long duration of Kanu’s trial, noting the toll it has likely taken on him.
Reflecting on Kanu’s journey from his 2015 arraignment at 47 years old to now, at 57, the judge observed that the protracted nature of the trial might have contributed to the emotional strain Kanu has faced. This, he suggested, could explain the comments made by Kanu that were deemed inappropriate.
Finally, Justice Omotosho offered an apology to the prosecution, on behalf of Kanu, signaling a moment of reconciliation as the trial enters its next phase.
With tensions running high, the proceedings mark a significant step forward in what has been a controversial and highly charged legal saga, as both sides prepare for the next phase of a trial that continues to captivate national attention.
