Odinkalu: I Don’t Know Nigerian Law, Withdraw My Certificate

Former National Human Rights Commission Chairman, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, has voiced strong concerns about Nigeria’s judicial system amid Nnamdi Kanu’s ongoing trial. He spoke during an interview with Seun on Channels TV, reacting to the IPOB leader’s decision to dismiss his legal team and represent himself in court.

Odinkalu expressed dismay at the current state of the judiciary, stating it operates differently from the legal principles he learned. He remarked sarcastically, “I Don’t Know Any Law in Nigeria, So I Can’t Help You Sir. Please Feel Free to Withdraw My Certificate. The fact is, the things the court do these days, I was not trained in them.” His comments highlight a perceived departure from foundational legal standards in the Nnamdi Kanu case and similar proceedings.

Legal Representation and Client Rights

Explaining the lawyer-client dynamic, Odinkalu referenced agency law. He noted, “A defendant says he will now defend himself. Well, in the vision of the law that I was taught, the relationship between a lawyer and a client is a relationship of agent and principal — with the client being the principal and the lawyer being the agent. If the principal withdraws the instructions, it is withdrawn, and the lawyer is obliged to cease representing the client.” This clarification underscores a defendant’s right to choose self-representation, as seen in the Nnamdi Kanu trial.

Calls for Judicial Integrity

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

Odinkalu’s critique extends beyond this specific instance. He emphasized that the rule of law must guide Nigeria’s democracy and warned against the justice system bending to external pressures. His remarks resonate with citizens concerned about legal integrity, especially in high-profile cases like that of Nnamdi Kanu. Many observers believe the judiciary requires urgent reform to restore public trust and ensure fairness.

The unfolding Nnamdi Kanu situation continues to draw significant public and legal scrutiny, reflecting broader debates about Nigeria’s justice system.