The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. During the hearing, the prosecution presented broadcasts and videos from “Radio Biafra” in an attempt to support their terrorism charges against Kanu.
The recordings, marked as exhibits, were introduced through the second prosecution witness (PW-2), identified as BBB, before Justice James Omotosho. The videos allegedly featured Kanu’s statements made during times of national unrest, including the 2020 EndSARS protests and various security incidents in the South-East.
Reports indicate that one broadcast showed Kanu criticizing Fulani herders’ attacks and accusing Nigerian governors of betraying the South-East. He also made controversial remarks about figures such as Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The broadcasts contained calls for self-defense and sharp criticisms of government failures.
The prosecution argued that the broadcasts incited violence and promoted secessionist ideas, while Kanu’s defense team, led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), maintained that the statements were political expressions protected under constitutional rights.
Under cross-examination, the prosecution’s witness confirmed Kanu’s identity in the videos and tried to link the broadcasts to violent incidents, such as attacks on security facilities. However, the witness admitted to being unaware that some charges had been previously struck out by the court.
A key part of the hearing also focused on IPOB’s 2017 proscription. While the defense did not object to the proscription document, they pointed out that the ban was imposed through an ex parte order without IPOB’s legal representation. Additionally, the defense raised concerns about a letter from the former Attorney General of the Federation directing Kanu’s arrest, arguing it was not initially served to them.
Justice Omotosho emphasized the importance of ensuring all evidence is properly served to the defense for a fair trial.
The trial was adjourned until Thursday, May 8, for further examination of prosecution witnesses.
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