Nnamdi Kanu Fires Lawyers, Chooses to Defend Himself in Nigerian Terrorism Trial

Kanu Dismisses Legal Team in Court

Nigerian separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu stunned the courtroom on Thursday after dismissing his legal team and declaring that he would represent himself. The 58-year-old opened his defence by arguing that the court lacked the jurisdiction to try him  a claim the presiding judge swiftly rejected.

Facing Terrorism and Incitement Charges

Kanu, who leads the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement, faces multiple charges including terrorism and incitement to violence. He has denied all accusations, insisting his calls for Biafran independence are peaceful and constitutionally protected. IPOB seeks to create an independent state for the Igbo-speaking people of southeastern Nigeria.

Courtroom Drama and Witness List

Just a day before his defence began, Kanu had submitted a list of witnesses that included former Nigerian Attorney General Abubakar Malami, who oversaw his arrest in 2021. The sudden decision to sack his lawyers came without explanation, and the dismissed legal team has not commented publicly on the move.

Claims of Illegal Detention

Kanu, who also holds a British passport, accused the Nigerian government of contempt of court for continuing to detain him despite a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling that struck down the charges. However, the Supreme Court later reinstated the case, citing unresolved legal issues. The presiding judge said those matters had already been settled during preliminary hearings and directed Kanu to proceed with his defence.

Protests Erupt in Abuja

Tensions outside the courtroom continue to grow. On Monday, Nigerian police fired tear gas to disperse crowds of protesters who had gathered in Abuja to demand Kanu’s immediate release. Human rights groups have since called for restraint and urged authorities to allow peaceful demonstrations.

A Cult Hero in the Southeast

Despite years of confrontation with the Nigerian state, Kanu remains a symbol of resistance for many in southeastern Nigeria. His movement, IPOB, was banned as a terrorist organisation in 2017, and its armed wing  the Eastern Security Network (ESN)  has been accused of violent attacks and killings in the region.

From Arrest to Extradition

Kanu’s legal troubles date back to 2015 when he was first arrested on terrorism charges. After being granted bail, he fled the country in 2017 following a military raid on his home. The court later revoked his bail and ordered his re-arrest. In 2021, he was detained abroad his lawyers claim it happened in Kenya, though the Kenyan government has never confirmed involvement and was subsequently returned to Nigeria to face trial.

Uncertain Legal Future

As his self-representation begins, analysts say Kanu’s move could complicate an already high-profile case that has strained Nigeria’s unity and reignited debates over self-determination. The trial is expected to continue amid heavy security and mounting political pressure.

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