The Federal Government on Monday formally commenced its case against the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, with fresh details of his 2015 arrest presented before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
During proceedings, the Department of State Services (DSS) told the court how Kanu was apprehended on October 14, 2015, at the Golden Tulip Hotel near Lagos International Airport. The lead prosecution witness, identified only as PWAAA, testified that the arrest followed an intelligence-led operation involving an eight-man DSS team conducting a room-to-room search. Kanu, who had arrived from the United Kingdom, was said to have used his native name to book the hotel room and was found in the company of a lady when operatives struck.
Justice James Omotosho granted the Federal Government’s request to shield the identities of all prosecution witnesses, approving the use of acronyms and allowing them to testify behind a screen. The move, made via an ex-parte application by lead prosecutor Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, was based on security concerns. The defendant and the judge will still be able to view the witnesses, despite the protection measures. Kanu’s legal team, led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, raised no objections to the arrangement.
Kanu, who is currently facing a seven-count charge of treasonable felony, reaffirmed his not-guilty plea. In a statement read in court, he distanced himself from violence in the South East and reiterated that his advocacy for the self-determination of the South East, South South, and parts of Benue and Kogi states is a constitutionally protected right, not an act of terrorism.
He confirmed founding Radio Biafra, asserting that the station is legally registered in the United Kingdom.
The court adjourned the matter until Friday for cross-examination of the prosecution’s witness.
Meanwhile, IPOB has reacted strongly to Monday’s court session, describing the items presented by the DSS as “personal belongings” and dismissing the prosecution’s claims as baseless.
In a statement signed by IPOB’s spokesman, Emma Powerful, the group condemned the evidence — which reportedly included wristwatches, a DJ mixer, a microphone, laptops, chargers, perfumes, and clothing — stating that no weapons or incriminating materials were recovered.
“This revelation lays bare the truth: there is no evidence to support the grave accusations leveled against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” IPOB said, calling on both the Nigerian and UK governments to end what it described as a politically motivated “charade.”
IPOB urged for a peaceful resolution and reiterated its call for a referendum, maintaining that its movement is non-violent and rooted in justice, dignity, and the right to self-determination.
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