Abuja – May 6, 2025
A witness from the Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday told the Federal High Court in Abuja that Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), admitted to operating an illegal radio station and inciting violence against police officers.
Testifying behind a protective screen, the second prosecution witness—identified only by the code name “BBB”—said Kanu acknowledged making inflammatory broadcasts via “Radio Biafra,” urging attacks on security personnel.
“He confirmed to us that the voice in the broadcast calling for the killing of police officers was his,” BBB stated while being led in evidence by prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN).
The witness further told Justice James Omotosho that Kanu admitted to running the radio station on frequencies 102.1 FM and 88.0 FM without a license from the National Broadcasting Commission.
“He is not just the IPOB leader, but also the founder of its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN),” BBB added.
According to BBB, the DSS was tasked in July 2021—following a letter from the Attorney General of the Federation—to investigate Kanu for alleged terrorism. He said Kanu made a voluntary statement in the presence of two of his lawyers, including Alloy Ejimakor.
The DSS officer testified that during the interview, he played several Radio Biafra clips in which Kanu made “inciting comments,” including direct calls for violent action. Kanu reportedly confirmed that the voice in those recordings was his.
“He said his agitation was for the secession of the five South-East states, along with parts of Kogi and Benue,” BBB added, noting that the interview session was captured on video.
The prosecution attempted to tender the AGF’s letter, the video recording, and a certificate of compliance as evidence. However, Kanu’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), objected, stating that the defence had not been served copies of the documents.
“It is the right of the defendant to receive every document the prosecution intends to rely on,” Agabi argued.
Justice Omotosho upheld the objection and ruled that the prosecution must serve the defence all relevant materials, in line with Section 36 of the Constitution. The judge adjourned proceedings until May 7 for the continuation of BBB’s testimony.
Earlier, the first prosecution witness (PW1), identified as PWAAA, concluded his cross-examination. Under questioning, he confirmed Kanu was investigated for allegedly inciting violence against police officers, although he admitted he wasn’t involved in drafting the initial 15-count charge.
“I am aware he incited people to kill members of the police force,” PWAAA said, though he acknowledged ignorance about the court having previously struck out eight of the charges.
In a separate courtroom incident, Justice Omotosho barred Favour Kanu, the defendant’s sister-in-law, from attending the next three sittings. The judge cited her for contempt after she admitted livestreaming court proceedings on social media.
When questioned, Favour apologised and claimed she was unaware the judge was still presiding. Despite a plea for leniency by defence counsel Agabi, the judge ordered her to leave the courtroom immediately.
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