In a dramatic twist at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Thursday, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, abruptly dismissed his entire legal team led by former Attorney General of the Federation, Godwin Kanu Agabi (SAN), during open court proceedings.

Kanu, who is standing trial on terrorism-related charges filed by the Federal Government, stunned observers when he took his case file from Agabi shortly after being ushered into the courtroom by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).

After exchanging pleasantries with his lead counsel, the IPOB leader reportedly informed him in a low tone that he no longer required their legal services and that they could take their leave.

The development was immediately brought to the attention of Justice James Omotosho, who confirmed from Kanu that he intended to represent himself in the ongoing trial. The judge’s suggestion to assign him a new lawyer was firmly rejected.

Following the exchange, Agabi, SAN, formally announced the withdrawal of all Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) representing Kanu from the case.

Throughout the session, Kanu repeatedly asserted that the court lacked jurisdiction to try him.

The embattled IPOB leader is expected to open his defence in the terrorism trial after the court earlier dismissed his no-case submission.