The Federal High Court in Abuja resumed the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Wednesday, with the prosecution continuing its case on terrorism-related charges.
Led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the prosecution presented further evidence against Kanu, including letters, statements, and video recordings allegedly showing the defendant inciting violence.
Representing Kanu was senior advocate Kanu Agabi.
A key witness for the prosecution, identified only by the code name BBB, continued his testimony and was shown a letter dated June 17, 2021.
The document, allegedly from the office of the then-Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and addressed to the Department of State Services (DSS), detailed allegations of terrorism, murder, and incitement against Kanu.
Reading from the letter, the witness stated that Kanu, through multiple broadcasts, “incited violence by instructing followers to attack police and military officers, seize their weapons, and burn down government institutions.”
The letter claimed these directives were linked to the deaths of security personnel and destruction of public infrastructure.
The prosecution further submitted a written statement allegedly made by Kanu during his DSS interrogation, which was accepted into evidence without objection.
In the document, Kanu declined to elaborate further, saying, “he had said all he wished to say.”
The court then admitted a flash drive containing video clips of Kanu’s alleged broadcasts, alongside a certificate of compliance.
Despite initial objections from the defence, the materials were accepted by the court.
Among the videos played in court was one dated December 12, 2020, in which Kanu declared: “In the blessed land of Biafra, we must do everything to save ourselves from extinction.”
In the same video, he referred to Nigeria as a “zoo” and called for resistance against “northern domination,” accusing political leaders of betrayal.
In another clip, Kanu introduced the Eastern Security Network (ESN), likening it to other regional security outfits such as Amotekun.
He defended its formation as necessary to “defend the South-East from Fulani herders,” adding, “If you are an agent of Fulani, turn your way this evening.”
The court was also shown footage from the EndSARS protests in which Kanu allegedly urged attacks on police personnel and government property.
A video from May 30, 2021, captured Kanu declaring a lockdown in the South-East “in memory of fallen Biafrans” and instructing residents not to leave their homes.
Another clip reportedly showed Kanu urging his supporters to acquire weapons: “procure guns and bullets for self-defence,” specifically in response to threats from Boko Haram and describing Fulani herders as terrorists.
The witness confirmed that the voice in all the video clips belonged to Kanu.
In addition, the court admitted into evidence a Federal Government gazette dated December 20, which formally listed IPOB as a terrorist organisation.
This exhibit, like others, was not contested by the defence.
As the video presentation extended beyond one hour, Awomolo requested an adjournment to continue with the remaining materials.
The defence did not object, and the judge adjourned the proceedings to May 8 for continuation of the trial.
