A witness from Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that the broadcasts made by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), incited violence in the South-East and disrupted the region’s economy.
Testifying on Friday, the fourth prosecution witness identified only as Mr DDD said Kanu’s messages encouraged IPOB’s militant arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), to enforce sit-at-home orders, which led to unrest and economic losses.
Led in evidence by government lawyer Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), the DSS operative said Kanu smuggled a radio transmitter into Nigeria, hiding it in household items to avoid detection by customs. The device was reportedly found in the home of one Benjamin Madubugwu in Ihiala, Anambra State.
Justice James Omotosho admitted several items as evidence, including the transmitter, two unlicensed pump-action guns, ammunition, laptops, and a quantity of marijuana, all said to have arrived in a 20-foot container from the United Kingdom.
The witness also mentioned a top ESN commander known as Ikonso, who was killed by security forces in April 2021. According to the DSS officer, Kanu later used his broadcast platform to mourn Ikonso and threatened retaliation.
Kanu, in another broadcast aired on May 29, 2021, allegedly criticised several political figures including former governors David Umahi, Rochas Okorocha, and current Imo State governor, Hope Uzodinma.
The case was then adjourned to June 18, 19, and 20, when the prosecution is expected to close its case.