Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has apologised for his verbal attacks on Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court and the prosecution team handling his case.
His new lead counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), conveyed the apology on Friday, March 21, before Justice James Omotosho, acknowledging that Kanu had acted out of prolonged frustration.
“He was angry and had been for a very long time,” Agabi stated, adding that Kanu’s criticisms of Justice Nyako and his former legal team, led by Aloy Ejimakor, were unjustified.
Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation, also extended apologies to the prosecution team led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) and the chairman of the Body of Benchers.
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“Kanu is a good man, and we must understand that not everyone will think alike. Room should be made for errors, and we must strive to save, not destroy,” Agabi added.
In response, Awomolo accepted the apology and assured that the prosecution would work towards a speedy trial. “I appreciate Kanu’s feelings and the heat this matter generates,” he remarked.
Justice Omotosho noted that the lengthy trial may have contributed to Kanu’s frustration.
“When he was arraigned in 2015, he was 47; now he is 57 and still does not know where he is headed,” the judge observed, suggesting that this uncertainty could have influenced Kanu’s remarks.
The judge also offered an apology to the prosecution team on Kanu’s behalf.
Kanu, who leads the IPOB movement advocating for an independent Biafra, has been facing multiple charges, including allegations of terrorism and treasonable felony.
His arrest and extradition from Kenya in 2021 sparked global outcry, with human rights organizations calling for his release and fair trial.
As the trial resumes on March 21, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Kanu’s self-representation is expected to bring new dynamics to a case that continues to generate national and international interest.