Nnamdi Kanu
The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has apologized for his recent verbal attacks on the Federal High Court and Justice Binta Nyako. His apology was delivered through his new counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, as part of efforts to mend fences in his ongoing legal battle.
Kanu, who has been at the center of a high-profile case since his arrest, directed his apology not only to Justice Nyako but also to the Federal Government’s lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, and his former legal team led by Aloy Ejimakor. Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, conveyed Kanu’s remorse in court on Friday before the new trial judge, Justice James Omotosho.
Agabi explained that Kanu had been angry for a long time and allowed his emotions to dictate his actions, leading to unjustified attacks on Justice Nyako. He also acknowledged that Kanu’s frustration had extended to his legal team, whom he verbally attacked. He assured the court that his client regretted his outburst and sought forgiveness from all affected parties.
The apology extended beyond the courtroom. Agabi also included the prosecution team led by Awomolo and the chairman of the Body of Benchers, emphasizing the high regard Kanu holds for them. He pleaded for understanding, stressing that everyone is different and that allowances should be made for human errors. According to him, efforts should always be directed at saving, not destroying.
In response to the apology, the prosecution, led by Awomolo, accepted Kanu’s expression of regret. He acknowledged the emotional toll the case had taken on Kanu and assured the court that the prosecution would do its best to ensure the trial proceeds smoothly and expeditiously. He noted that he understood the weight of the situation and Kanu’s sentiments about it.
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Justice Omotosho also addressed the court, noting that the lengthy trial had undoubtedly affected Kanu. Reflecting on the years that had passed since Kanu’s arraignment in 2015, the judge pointed out that Kanu was 47 years old at the time, but he is now 57 and remains uncertain about his fate. Justice Omotosho suggested that this prolonged legal ordeal may have influenced Kanu’s outburst, leading him to make inappropriate remarks. He then took the initiative to apologize to the prosecutor on Kanu’s behalf, further fostering an atmosphere of reconciliation in the courtroom.
