In a dramatic turn of events, Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has issued a formal apology to Federal High Court Justice Binta Nyako and the Attorney-General of the Federation’s counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, for his courtroom outburst during his ongoing treason trial.
Kanu also pledged to maintain good behavior throughout the proceedings.
Justice Nyako, who had stepped aside from the case on September 24, 2024, was reassigned to it by Chief Judge John Tsoho. Kanu’s earlier tirade had seen him verbally attack Nyako and Awomolo in open court. However, at Friday’s session, after appearances were announced, Kanu’s lawyer, former AGF Chief Kanu Agabi, addressed the court on his behalf. Agabi delivered an emotional apology via a detailed prepared speech, seeking forgiveness from both Nyako and Awomolo for Kanu’s unrestrained remarks.
Agabi acknowledged Kanu’s frustration but admitted it was no excuse for his actions. “In expressing his anger, he attacked the federal high court, Justice Binta Nyako, the prosecutor, and even his own lawyers,” Agabi stated. Reading from the speech, he said, “I hereby apologise to Justice Binta Nyako. She did not deserve the unjust attack. I apologise to Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN. He deserves the highest respect. He was castigated without reservations. I appeal for forgiveness.” Agabi portrayed Kanu as a well-meaning but imperfect advocate for the Igbo people, urging peace over violence in resolving disputes.
Awomolo, visibly touched by the plea, accepted the apology and assured the court of his commitment to an expeditious trial. Presiding Judge James Omotosho, now overseeing the case, suggested that the trial’s decade-long duration might have fueled Kanu’s frustration. Noting that Kanu was 47 when arraigned in 2015 and is now 57 with no resolution in sight, Omotosho encouraged Awomolo to forgive him.
After the apology, the court read the seven-count treason charges to Kanu, who pleaded not guilty. Awomolo then requested an accelerated hearing, a motion Justice Omotosho granted, citing the case’s 10-year span. The trial was adjourned to April 29, May 2, and May 6 for further proceedings.
