BIAFRA: NNAMDI KANU APOLOGIZES IN COURT

In a rare action, Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, tendered an apology to the Nigerian judiciary during his last appearance in court.

The move has been described by many stakeholders as a pathway to the much-sought diplomatic solution to his detention.

Kanu tendered the apology through his lawyer, before Justice James Omotosho of the Abuja Federal High Court, especially over his recent attacks on Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja Federal High Court.

During the court outing, Kanu had apologized to the legal team of the Nigerian government led by Adegboyega Awomolo for attacking Justice Binta Nyako.

He tendered the apology through his new lead Counsel, Kanu Agabi.

Kanu has been on trial for about 10 years over his agitation for the actualization of the sovereign state of Biafra.

In September 2024, Kanu, while appearing before Justice Nyako for terrorism related charges, had caused an uproar in open court when he challenged the judge to recuse herself from his trial.

Speaking from the dock of the courtroom, Kanu interrupted proceedings and announced that he no longer had confidence in her and demanded that she recused herself immediately.

Accusing Nyako of bias, Kanu had said: “Justice Binta Nyako is using her position for personal gain. Her son and her husband are facing corruption charges. And they (the Nigerian Government) told them (the judge and the court) that if they convict me (they will free the son and the husband).

“They (Nigerian Government) sent her to my case so they can release or smoothen the pathway for the husband and the son.”

However, Agabi described Kanu as a good man while pleading that there should be room for errors, and they must strive to save and not destroy.

Commenting on Kanu’s apology, activist lawyer, Maduabuchi Idam said the apology, which indicates meekness in court, would go a long way in currying favour for the defendant