The Department of State Services (DSS) has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), used his broadcasts to incite violence, enforce illegal sit-at-home orders, and negatively impact the economy of Nigeria’s South-East region.
Testifying on Friday, the fourth prosecution witness, a DSS operative identified only as Mr. DDD, said under examination by lead prosecution counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) that Kanu’s radio messages triggered the militant enforcement of IPOB’s directives by its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The witness also alleged that Kanu smuggled a radio transmitter into the country, hidden among household items to avoid detection. The device, which was not declared to Nigerian Customs, was reportedly stored at the residence of one Benjamin Madubugwu in Ubuluisiuzor, Ihiala, Anambra State.
Justice James Omotosho admitted the radio transmitter into evidence, along with other items including two unlicensed pump-action guns, ammunition, laptop computers, and a quantity of marijuana. The items, said to have been smuggled from the United Kingdom, were presented in a 20-foot container brought to the court premises.
The witness also testified about a known ESN commander, Nwokike Anyinayo Andy, popularly known as Ikonso, who was killed by security forces on April 24, 2021, in Awomama, Oru East LGA of Imo State. He said Kanu reacted with a broadcast the next day, mourning Ikonso and vowing revenge. In another broadcast on May 29, 2021, Kanu reportedly insulted prominent South-East political leaders, including former Imo State governors David Umahi, Rochas Okorocha, and current governor Hope Uzodinma.
The case has been adjourned to June 18, 19, and 20 for continuation of trial and for the prosecution to close its case.
