The terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has suffered a major setback as his lead counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), and other Senior Advocates on the defence team formally withdrew from the case.

Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation, announced his withdrawal during Thursday’s proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Agabi informed the court that Kanu had opted to take full control of his defence, prompting his decision to step aside.

His announcement was followed by similar withdrawals from other members of the defence team, leaving the embattled IPOB leader without legal representation in one of Nigeria’s most closely watched trials.

Confirming the development, Kanu told the court he would represent himself “for now,” though he left open the possibility of engaging new counsel later.

Trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, asked whether the court should assign a lawyer to him, but Kanu declined, insisting on personally conducting his defence.

During the session, Kanu began his oral submissions by challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case, arguing that the charges against him were politically motivated and inconsistent with due process.

His stance further complicated the proceedings, which had been scheduled for an accelerated hearing.

Justice Omotosho had earlier granted Kanu six consecutive days beginning October 23 to open and conclude his defence in the seven-count terrorism-related case filed by the Federal Government.

The unexpected withdrawal of his legal team now casts uncertainty over the timeline and progression of the trial.

In an earlier filing, Kanu listed several high-profile witnesses he intends to call in his defence, including former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, retired Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, and retired Defence Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma.