By Bosun Obafemi
Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Friday publicly apologized for his earlier verbal outbursts against the former trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako, and other individuals involved in his ongoing legal proceedings.
The apology was delivered by Kanu’s new counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice.
Kanu, through Agabi, expressed regret for the attacks made against Justice Nyako, the Federal Government’s counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, and his own legal team, which had been led by Aloy Ejimakor. Agabi explained that Kanu’s actions were borne out of anger, which led to his unfortunate and inappropriate comments during the trial.
The court proceedings saw Agabi seeking permission to convey Kanu’s apology. He stated that the matter had been discussed with the prosecution’s counsel, Chief Awomolo, and received his consent. Justice Omotosho granted the request and allowed Agabi to read the message on Kanu’s behalf.
In the message, Agabi noted that while anger is a common human response, it is important to exercise restraint when expressing it. He further emphasized that Kanu, in his frustration, had said things that were unjustified.
Agabi apologized to Justice Nyako, calling her one of Nigeria’s most respected judges, and to Chief Awomolo for the earlier attacks, noting that Awomolo’s humility and dedication to the profession deserved nothing but the utmost respect. He also offered an apology to Kanu’s legal team, acknowledging the unreserved criticism they faced from their client.
Agabi urged all those Kanu had offended to forgive him, acknowledging the pressure of the circumstances but also the responsibility that comes with leadership. He also reflected on Kanu’s ongoing struggles, asserting that the anger that led to the outbursts had clouded his better judgment.
The former AGF used the occasion to reflect on the broader need for national unity, peace, and reconciliation. He appealed for a more integrated and peaceful Nigeria, where people, regardless of their ethnicity or religion, could come together to forge a better future.
Agabi’s remarks also invoked the spirit of sacrifice, citing figures like Col. Fajuyi, a Yoruba man who laid down his life for Gen. Aguiyi Ironsi, an Igbo man, as exemplars of national unity.
In response, Chief Awomolo expressed that he had forgiven Kanu for the personal attacks made against him, clarifying that as a prosecutor, his role was to uphold the law, not to persecute. He welcomed the gesture and emphasized the importance of professional duty in the expeditious handling of the case.
Justice Omotosho also acknowledged Kanu’s apology, expressing understanding of the prolonged nature of the trial, which had spanned nearly a decade.
Quoting Mathew 23:23, Justice Omotosho said the Holy Bible lays emphasis on three key words; justice, faith and mercy.
He underscored the need for timely justice and vowed to proceed with fairness and mercy.
After the exchange, Kanu was re-arraigned on a seven-count amended charge, including terrorism-related offenses, to which he pleaded not guilty. Justice Omotosho ordered accelerated hearings for the case, scheduling the next court dates for April 29, May 2, and May 6.
This development marks a significant moment in Kanu’s ongoing legal battle, as both sides seem to have reached a moment of mutual understanding, with the potential for a more constructive resolution moving forward.
