Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has publicly apologized for previous statements he made against the Federal High Court, the presiding judge, the prosecution, and his own legal team. Represented by his new lawyer, Kanu Agabi, he admitted that his remarks were made in frustration and acknowledged they were inappropriate. He attributed his emotional response to the prolonged nature of his trial.
As reported by Vanguard, Kanu also extended his apology to his legal representatives, retracting his criticisms of Justice Binta Nyako, the former judge overseeing his case. He acknowledged her as a respected judicial officer who did not deserve the negative remarks. His decision to apologize appears to be part of a broader effort to reduce tensions surrounding his legal battle.
In his statement, Kanu emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of disputes and urged Nigerians to move beyond past grievances in the interest of national unity. He called on all parties to work towards reconciliation and lasting peace. The prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, accepted Kanu’s apology, stating that he bore no personal grudge against him. Awomolo stressed that his role was to prosecute fairly, not to victimize, and assured that he would continue handling the case with professionalism.
“This is a time for peace, and we must work towards it. Differences should be settled through peaceful means. We are one nation and must unite, leaving the past behind to build a peaceful future,” Kanu stated.
Presiding Judge Justice James Omotosho acknowledged the psychological and emotional toll the prolonged trial had taken on Kanu. He noted that Kanu had spent a decade in legal proceedings, from age 47 to 57, with uncertainty about his fate. Recognizing this impact, Justice Omotosho took the unusual step of extending an apology to the prosecution on Kanu’s behalf, reinforcing the court’s commitment to fairness and order in the judicial process.
