Ogona Anita
The wife of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra Uchechi Kanu who is being tried for terrorism, has explained why her husband apologised for his behaviour in Justice Binta Nyako’s court.
In a statement, Uchechi Kanu said, it was necessary for her husband to apologise because renowned senior lawyer, Chief Kanu Agabi had taken over as his counsel. She said Agabi’s status necessitated the apology.
The statement said, “In court today, my husband, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, acknowledged the necessity for Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, the new lead counsel, to address the court of Justice James Omotosho regarding what transpired at Binta Nyako’s court, which shook the foundations of the Nigerian judiciary.
“These clarifications were duly delivered by Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN—a towering figure, twice Attorney-General, twice Minister of Justice, and a former Senator.
“Chief Agabi, stepping into Onyendu’s brief, acted to smooth over the ruffled feathers in certain segments of the bar and bench, caused by Onyendu’s legitimate, anger-fueled outbursts against Justice Binta Nyako’s court, which led to her recusal.
“Chief Kanu Agabi’s stature made it necessary; he could not represent Onyendu without restoring the decorum expected of the Abuja bench and the judiciary as a whole.
“Remarkably, Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the matter, also apologised to Onyendu for the prolonged delays and mishandling of his trial over the years, acknowledging his ordeal at the hands of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
“Chief Agabi’s intervention was strategic, balancing Onyendu’s fury with the dignity of the court.
“I suggest we read the full text of the statement before offering comments. Chief Agabi spoke in his own personal capacity, and his vision for an amicable resolution (dialogue) and peaceful co-existence. It is not rocket science.”
