Nnamdi Kanu tenders apology over misconduct in open court

The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has formally apologised to the Federal High Court, Justice Binta Nyako, and Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, over his misconduct at the last proceedings of his trial on terrorism charges.

He pleaded passionately for forgiveness and promised to be of good conduct throughout the duration of his trial.

Kanu's apology was contained in a lengthy prepared speech delivered by his lead counsel and former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Kanu Agabi.

In the emotion-laden speech, Kanu specifically begged Justice Nyako and Awomolo to forgive and forget his outburst and attacks against them in open court.

Agabi said that Kanu had cause to be angry but ought not to have spoken when anger overwhelmed him.

“In expressing his anger, he attacked the Federal High Court, he attacked Justice Binta Nyako, he attacked the prosecutor, and he attacked his own lawyers.

“I hereby apologise to Justice Binta Nyako. She did not deserve the unjust attack. I apologise to Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN. He deserves the highest respect. He was castigated without reservations.

“I appeal for forgiveness. Kanu is a good man, but all of us cannot be of one mind. He is not perfect but is defending the cause of the Igbo people, who are resilient, fearless, and use their God-given talents to give a good account of themselves.

“We may have misgivings, but we must seek forgiveness. In resolving our differences, let us employ peace and not violence,” he pleaded.

In a brief remark, Awomolo, SAN, said he was moved by the plea and has forgiven Kanu for all he said against him.

The senior lawyer said he was not a persecutor but a prosecutor and that they work to ensure the quick resolution of the charges.

Details later.