More senior and experienced legal experts have officially joined the legal defense team of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as his trial on terrorism-related charges continues to gain attention in Nigeria’s Federal High Court.
According to an update shared by Kanu’s Special Counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, two prominent legal minds—Paul Esokoro, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and Dr. P.K. Obi, a respected academic—were present in court during the latest hearing.
Ejimakor noted: “Breaking: PAUL ESOKORO (a Senior Advocate of Nigeria) and Dr. P.K. Obi (an accomplished academic) have joined the ever-expanding legal team of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. They’re both present in Court today & proceedings are ongoing. The more, the merrier.”
This development comes amid increased legal efforts to defend Kanu as the federal government continues presenting its case before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The courtroom, which has seen multiple high-profile appearances over the months, was once again the stage for what may turn into a prolonged legal battle.
Earlier this week, four other Senior Advocates of Nigeria also joined Kanu’s legal defense, bringing the total number of high-profile lawyers representing him to a notable count. These include Prof. Onyechi Ikpeazu, Emeka Etiaba, Mela Audu Nunghe, and Joseph Akubo—all well-regarded names in Nigeria’s legal circles.
Ejimakor, providing further insight on social media platform X, shared a brief overview of what was expected in the day’s proceedings. “FRN versus MNK: As the Court reconvenes today in less than an hour, here’s a summary of what to expect. The prosecution will continue to present its case through their witness, and there might not be enough time to conduct our cross-examination today. Another adjournment is in view.”
So far, the prosecution has produced two witnesses and presented recordings said to be linked to Kanu. These testimonies are expected to play a significant role as the trial proceeds.
Kanu, who has remained in detention since his controversial re-arrest in 2021, faces several terrorism-related charges. The case continues to draw national and international interest, especially from human rights groups and political observers.
