A prosecution witness in the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), told the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday that the defendant admitted to inciting the public to attack police officers during interrogation.
The witness, a State Security Service (SSS) operative identified as “BBB” for security reasons, testified behind a screen before Justice James Omotosho. He stated that Kanu, while being interrogated on July 17, 2021, acknowledged making broadcasts on Radio Biafra calling for violence against security personnel.
BBB, the second prosecution witness, revealed that Kanu founded both IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). He said the IPOB leader operated an unlicensed radio station broadcasting on frequencies 102.1 FM and 88.0 FM without approval from the National Broadcasting Commission.
The witness said the interrogation followed a letter from the Attorney General of the Federation requesting investigation into Kanu’s alleged terrorism activities. During the session, which was video recorded, Kanu reportedly admitted to making secessionist broadcasts after being played recordings of his Radio Biafra transmissions.
BBB testified that Kanu sought the secession of five southeastern states, parts of Kogi and Benue from Nigeria. However, proceedings were delayed when defense counsel Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN) objected to the admission of new evidence – the AGF’s letter and interrogation video – which he said were not previously provided to the defense.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the case to May 7 to allow the prosecution to serve all necessary documents on the defense, upholding the defendant’s constitutional right to access all evidence against him.
Earlier, the first prosecution witness (AAA), another SSS operative, concluded his testimony. Under cross-examination, he acknowledged being aware Kanu was charged with inciting violence against police, though unaware eight of the original 15 charges had been struck out.
The court also addressed procedural matters, with Justice Omotosho limiting legal representation due to space constraints and barring Kanu’s sister-in-law, Favour Kanu, from attending three sessions after she live-streamed proceedings despite previous warnings.
The judge emphasized the need for orderly proceedings while assuring all parties of fair justice delivery in the high-profile case.
