NIGERIA: Nnamdi Kanu Apologizes For Outbursts Against Judge, Lawyers, And Prosecutors

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has formally apologized for his verbal attacks on Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, as well as his legal team and the prosecution.

Kanu’s apology was conveyed through his new lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, during a court session on Friday, before Justice James Omotosho.

Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, admitted that his client had been deeply frustrated for a long time and allowed his emotions to cloud his judgment.

“The attack on Justice Binta Nyako was unjustified,” Agabi stated.

He further apologized to Kanu’s former legal team, led by Aloy Ejimakor, as well as the prosecution team led by Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, and the chairman of the Body of Benchers, whom he described as highly respected figures.

Agabi described Kanu as a good man who had been caught in the heat of a prolonged legal battle, urging the court to make room for human errors. “We must strive to save and not destroy,” he pleaded.

In response, Awomolo acknowledged the apology and assured that the prosecution would do its best to ensure a speedy trial. He also recognized the emotional toll the case has taken on Kanu.

Justice Omotosho, while presiding over the proceedings, noted that Kanu’s prolonged detention and legal battle could have contributed to his outbursts.

He pointed out that Kanu was 47 when he was first arraigned in 2015 and is now 57, still uncertain about his future. He suggested that the lengthy legal process may have influenced Kanu’s statements.

To further ease tensions, Justice Omotosho personally extended an apology to the prosecution team on Kanu’s behalf, signaling a move towards a more conciliatory approach in the ongoing legal proceedings.