The Federal High Court in Abuja has heard how Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), allegedly smuggled a radio transmitter into Nigeria by concealing it among household items.
The transmitter, reportedly used to broadcast secessionist messages and incite violence, was discovered at a residence in Ihiala, Anambra State.
A Department of State Services (DSS) operative, identified as Mr. DDD, testified on Thursday as the fourth prosecution witness, stating that the transmitter entered the country without declaration to the Nigeria Customs Service. The witness alleged that Kanu hid the device at the home of one Benjamin Madubougu.
Led in evidence by prosecution counsel Adegboyega Awomolo, the DSS official told the court that Kanu’s broadcasts fueled the activities of IPOB’s militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), especially in enforcing a May 31, 2021, sit-at-home order across the South-East.
A certified search warrant issued by the Ihiala Chief Magistrate Court on October 28, 2015, was tendered and admitted by the court, alongside a flash drive containing 18 video clips and 16 radio broadcasts attributed to Kanu. In one of the videos, played during the hearing, Kanu was seen referring to the transmitter as a “nuclear weapon for Biafra.”
Also admitted was a statement from Madubougu confirming that Kanu brought in the transmitter without customs documentation.
The prosecution further presented a controversial newspaper article where an alleged ESN member claimed that Kanu ordered the collection of 2,000 human heads for burial rites—though only 30 were reportedly obtained. Despite objections from the defence team led by Onyechi Ikpeazu, the court admitted the article with a certificate of compliance.
Following a request from the prosecution, the court granted approval for an on-site inspection of the container housing the transmitter and related materials currently held at the DSS headquarters in Abuja. Justice James Omotoso subsequently visited the facility and admitted the transmitter as exhibit PWZ and the container as exhibit PWY.
Justice Omotoso emphasized the court’s responsibility to thoroughly examine all evidence in the pursuit of justice. The trial was adjourned until June 18, 19, and 20, when the prosecution is expected to close its case.
