*IPOB Leader Apolosises Over Past Outburst
THE trial of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, over alleged treason, resumed on Friday, March 21, at a Federal High Court in Abuja, for a hearing before new Judge, Justice James Omotosho.
At the trial, a former attorney general of the Federation and minister of Justice, Mr. Kanu Agabi (SAN) appeared as head of the defence team, while the prosecution was still led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) in the terrorism and treasonable felony case.
Shortly after appearances, Agabi pleaded to address the court, starting by apologising on behalf of his client for his earlier outbursts, saying that they were now at a place where they must apologise to Justice Binta Murtala-Nyako, the prosecution team and his own lawyers.
Agabi noted that Kanu was angry, having being in detention for a very long time, adding though that the attack on Justice Murtala-Nyako was unjustified, just as he also apologised to the legal team, who he attacked verbally.
The lead Counsel said Kanu was a good man and everyone cannot be of like minds, pleading that room should be made for errors and they must strive to save and not destroy.
While accepting the apology, the prosecution team added that they would do their best to ensure an expeditious hearing of the case, with Awomolo adding that he appreciates Kanu’s feeling and the heat the matter generates.
Thereafter, Justice Omotosho said the length of the trial may have taken a toll on Kanu, who when he was arraigned in 2015, was 47, and is 57 now and still does not know where he is headed, a situation that might have led him to make certain comments that were not right.
Justice Omotosho also tendered an apology to the prosecutor on behalf of Kanu.
After Kanu pleaded not guilty to all the seven-counts, Agabi told the court that they were ready to proceed with the trial.
Justice Omotosho has granted accelerated hearing of the case, which has been on for 10 years.
The case was adjourned to April 29, May 2 and 6, this year, for trial.
