The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed on Thursday with a surprise apology from Kanu’s legal team. Kanu pleaded not guilty to the seven-count treasonable felony charge against him.
The trial was adjourned to April 29, May 2, and 6 for a full-blown trial, with the Federal High Court ordering an accelerated hearing. This development comes after Kanu’s case file was reassigned to Justice James Omotosho.
Kanu’s apology was tendered through his legal team, now led by former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Kanu Agabi.
The apology was for Kanu’s outburst during his last appearance before Justice Binta Nyako. Kanu’s legal team pledged that he would be of good conduct throughout the trial.
In response, the prosecution counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, forgave Kanu for his comments, stating that he was not out to persecute Kanu but to ensure a quick resolution of the matter. The prosecution then asked for an adjournment to assemble witnesses, which was granted.
Kanu’s trial has been marked by several adjournments and changes in judges. Previously, Justice Nyako recused herself after Kanu accused her of bias. The case was then transferred to Justice Omotosho.
The IPOB leader was arrested in Kenya and extraordinarily renditioned to Nigeria in June 2021.
