The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed on Tuesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Justice James Omotosho presided over the proceedings, during which the court granted the Federal Government’s request to allow witnesses to testify behind screens for security reasons.
At the hearing, Kanu’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, informed the court that his defense team consisted of 22 members. However, Justice Omotosho approved only 13, as previously listed.
The defense team has been strengthened with the addition of four Senior Advocates of Nigeria: Audu Nunghe, Joseph Akubo, Emeka Etiaba, and Onyechi Ikpeazu.
Federal Government counsel, Adegboyega Awolowo, explained that the request to shield witness identities was made due to the sensitive nature of the case and concerns for the safety of the witnesses. The first witness, identified as “AAA,” is a Department of State Services (DSS) officer with 18 years of service.
Testifying behind a screen, AAA recounted the events of October 14, 2015, when he led a team to arrest Kanu at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Lagos. Despite initial resistance, Kanu was apprehended and transported to the DSS facility in Lagos. Items from his hotel room were cataloged, and Kanu confirmed their completeness. The items, which included broadcasting equipment, were seized and later admitted as evidence in court.
The trial continues to attract significant attention, with various media outlets providing coverage of the proceedings. The decision to allow witnesses to testify behind screens has been a point of contention, with some parties expressing concerns over the implications for transparency and the right to a fair trial.
As the case progresses, it remains a focal point in discussions about national security, the right to self-determination, and the balance between public safety and judicial transparency in Nigeria.
