Abuja, Nigeria – In a surprising turn of events, Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has apologized to the Nigerian judiciary during his latest court appearance. The apology, tendered through his lawyer, was directed at Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja Federal High Court, whom Kanu had previously accused of bias.
The development comes amid ongoing legal proceedings against Kanu, who has been in detention since his extraordinary rendition from Kenya in 2021. His trial on terrorism-related charges has sparked widespread controversy, with calls for a political resolution to his case.
During his court appearance before Justice James Omotosho, Kanu’s new lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, presented the apology to the government’s legal team, led by Adegboyega Awomolo. Agabi, a former Attorney General of the Federation, emphasized Kanu’s willingness to show respect to the court, describing him as a “good man” who should not be defined by past confrontations.
This gesture is seen by many as a strategic move to improve Kanu’s standing in court. Legal analysts suggest that the apology could influence judicial discretion in his favor, especially after his courtroom outburst in September 2024, where he openly challenged Justice Nyako’s impartiality.
Kanu’s legal battle, which has lasted nearly a decade, remains a politically charged issue. IPOB, the movement he leads, continues to push for the secession of southeastern Nigeria, a stance that has led to frequent clashes with security forces. His continued detention has fueled unrest in the region, with many of his supporters demanding his immediate release.
Reacting to Kanu’s apology, activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam described it as a necessary step towards securing his freedom. He emphasized that respect for the judiciary plays a crucial role in legal proceedings and that Kanu’s latest approach could work in his favor.
“The apology is not an admission of guilt but a demonstration of respect for the court,” Idam stated. “This could help change the perception surrounding him in the courtroom.”
Meanwhile, former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chuks Ibegbu, reiterated that Kanu’s case remains a political issue requiring a political solution. He expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu might intervene to secure Kanu’s release.
“There is nothing wrong with his apology. It is a strategic move. Kanu’s trial is political, and a political solution is needed,” Ibegbu said.
Despite this new development, there is no official indication that Kanu will be released soon. His legal team continues to push for his freedom, while the Nigerian government insists that due process must be followed.
As the legal battle unfolds, the question remains: Will this change in approach pave the way for Kanu’s release, or will his detention continue to fuel tensions in the region?
