The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has issued a formal apology for his recent verbal attacks on the Federal High Court and Justice Binta Nyako.
Kanu, through his new legal counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, also extended his apology to the Federal Government’s lead prosecutor, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, as well as his former legal team, which was previously led by Aloy Ejimakor.
Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, tendered the apology before Justice James Omotosho, the new judge presiding over Kanu’s case. He explained that Kanu had been angry for a long time due to his prolonged trial but admitted that his attacks on Justice Nyako were unjustified. He also apologized to Kanu’s former legal representatives, whom Kanu had criticized in the past.
Prosecution Accepts Apology, Pledges Fair Trial
In response, the prosecution team, led by Awomolo, accepted Kanu’s apology and assured that efforts would be made to ensure a speedy hearing. Awomolo acknowledged the intense emotions surrounding the case and Kanu’s frustrations.
Justice Omotosho also weighed in, noting that the long duration of Kanu’s trial may have taken a toll on him. He remarked that since Kanu’s arraignment in 2015, the IPOB leader had spent a decade uncertain of his future. The judge suggested that this prolonged legal battle could have contributed to Kanu’s outbursts.
Omotosho further extended an apology to the prosecution team on behalf of Kanu, expressing hope for a more constructive legal process moving forward.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Kanu has been facing trial on charges including treasonable felony since his arrest and extradition to Nigeria. His case has sparked widespread debate, particularly among his supporters and political figures from the South-East.
