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ABUJA – The Nnamdi Kanu trial started this week at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), faces seven terrorism counts from the Federal Government. Four more Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) joined his defense, bringing the total to six SANs among 19 lawyers. Kanu pleaded not guilty.
DSS Witness Testifies Secretly
The first prosecution witness, a Department of State Services (DSS) operative, testified. The court used the code PWAAA and a camera screen to shield the witness’s identity. The operative described Kanu’s 2015 arrest in a Lagos hotel and listed recovered items like IPOB pamphlets, laptops, and phones. A video of Kanu’s interrogation was shown and admitted as evidence.
Kanu’s Statement Read in Court
Kanu’s written statement was presented. He admitted “fighting for the emancipation” of his people, calling it his right to self-determination. He insisted his actions concerning the South-East, South-South, and parts of Benue and Kogi states are not terrorism. Kanu also confirmed founding IPOB and operating Radio Biafra from London. The Nnamdi Kanu trial will weigh these statements.
Trial Adjourned for Cross-Examination
Items from Kanu’s hotel room were accepted as court exhibits. The judge adjourned the trial until May 2, 2025, for the defense to cross-examine the DSS witness. Kanu has been in DSS detention since 2021. Initial charges were reduced from 15 to seven. The Supreme Court ruled last year that Kanu must face trial on these remaining terrorism charges.
By Abdullah Korede
