• Denied terrorism accusations
By Vivian Okejeme
The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Friday, 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 the terrorism charges.
The embattled Kanu, who remained calmed throughout the re-arraignment, pleaded 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.
He specifically begged Justice Nyako and Awomolo to forgive and forget his outburst and attacks against them in the open court.
However, 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 his own lawyers.
“I hereby apologize to Justice Binta Nyako. She did not deserve the unjust attack.
“I apologize to Chief Adegboyega Awomolo SAN. He deserves highest respect. He was castigated without reservations.
“ I appeal for forgiveness. Kanu is good man but all of us cannot be of one mind.
“He is not perfect but defending the cause of Igbo people who are resilient, fearless and using their God given talents to give good account of themselves.
“We may have misgivings but we must seek forgiveness. In resolving our differences, let us employ peace and not violence to resolve our differences”, he pleaded.
In a brief remark, Awomolo said he was moved by the plea and has forgiven Kanu for all he said against him.
Awomolo said he was not a persecutor but prosecutor, adding that they work to ensure quick resolution of the charges.
Meanwhile, the detained Kanu, also pleaded not guilty to the terrorism charges brought against him by the federal government.
Kanu ,who appeared before Justice James Kolawole Omotosho,, took the plea of not guilty of a 7-count charges and, denied the accusations of threatening Nigeria’s corporate existence and operating illegal radio station to broadcast the Biafra messages.
