A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Thursday heard damning testimony from a Department of State Services (DSS) official linking broadcasts by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to a series of violent killings, including that of former presidential aide Ahmed Gulak.
Testifying as the second prosecution witness in the ongoing terrorism trial, the DSS operative said Kanu’s broadcasts incited violence across the Southeast, resulting in the deaths of Gulak, retired Justice Stanley Nnaji, and military personnel Sergeant Audu Lucas and Private Glory Matthew.
According to the witness, Kanu’s directive for a sit-at-home order led to the brutal killing and beheading of Sergeant Lucas and Private Matthew by IPOB’s armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
He alleged the same order led to Gulak’s killing, as his attackers blamed him for defying the stay-at-home directive.
The witness also testified that DSS investigations established Kanu as the founder and leader of IPOB and ESN, and that he used the unregistered Radio Biafra to issue inflammatory broadcasts encouraging attacks on security personnel and the destruction of government property.
“We were able to establish that he founded Radio Biafra through which he made inciting comments, including calling for the killing and beheading of police officers,” the witness said.
He added that some of Kanu’s broadcasts allegedly prompted the burning of police stations in Lagos and the destruction of government buses and parts of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport.
A video of Kanu’s interrogation by DSS operatives was also played in court. In the footage, Kanu confirmed being the founder of both IPOB and ESN, though he denied responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the organisations.
He also claimed the groups were peaceful and denied authorizing any violent activities.
Kanu justified the formation of ESN, saying it arose from the need to protect southeastern communities from attacks and insecurity.
He further criticized the Nigerian military’s invasion of his home and the nature of his arrest and extradition from Kenya.
After the prosecution concluded its examination-in-chief, defence counsel Paul Erokoro (SAN) requested time to prepare for cross-examination.
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to May 14, 21, and 22 for continuation of trial.
