Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial Adjourned to Friday After Legal Team Withdraws

The trial of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu took a dramatic turn on Thursday after his entire legal team withdrew from the case, forcing the court to adjourn proceedings till Friday, October 24, 2025.

Kanu, who was scheduled to open his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial, was left without legal representation after lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), announced his withdrawal along with other Senior Advocates.

Agabi told the court, “The reason for our withdrawal is because the defendant has taken this case back from us and we respect that.”

Those who withdrew include Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Joseph Akubo (SAN), Paul Erokoro (SAN), Emeka Etiaba (SAN), and another unnamed SAN.

When Justice James Omotosho asked Kanu to respond, he confirmed dismissing his lawyers and stated that he was ready to conduct his defence personally.

The court then ordered all lawyers except the SANs to leave the courtroom. Justice Omotosho instructed Kanu to begin his defence immediately, but Kanu began challenging the court’s jurisdiction. He was overruled by the judge, who insisted the defence must proceed.

At that point, Ikpeazu informed the court that the withdrawal took effect just that morning and requested time for Kanu to compose himself. The prosecution did not oppose this request.

Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the case till Friday, giving Kanu time to prepare his defence.