The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday heard that the broadcasts made by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), led to multiple deaths, including those of former Senior Special Assistant to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Ahmed Gulak, and retired judge, Justice Stanley Nnaji. The testimony was given by an official of the Department of State Services (DSS) as the second prosecution witness in the ongoing trial.
According to the witness, Kanu’s broadcast, which included a call for a sit-at-home across the Southeastern states, led to the deaths of several individuals, including a military couple—Sergeant Audu Lucas and Private Glory Matthew—who were reportedly beheaded by Kanu's supporters. The victim, Gulak, was also killed after being blamed for defying the sit-at-home order.
The witness further revealed that Kanu, founder of both IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), used Radio Biafra to spread inciting messages, such as calls for the killing and beheading of security officers. He also confirmed that the broadcast led to the destruction of police stations and government property in Lagos, with about 100 luxury buses and part of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport being burned.
Kanu's broadcast activities and his call for Biafran secession from Nigeria were cited as significant contributions to the violence in the Southeastern region. His followers were accused of carrying out violent acts, including the burning of properties and attacks on security officers, as directed by Kanu.
In a video played in court, Kanu confirmed his role as the founder and leader of IPOB and ESN. However, he denied having direct control over the day-to-day operations of the groups, claiming that state coordinators managed them. Kanu also denied responsibility for the violence in the Southeast, maintaining that IPOB is a peaceful movement.
The trial, which is ongoing, has drawn significant attention due to Kanu's high-profile status and his advocacy for Biafran independence. Kanu has denied the charges against him and has claimed that the invasion of his house by soldiers was the catalyst for his departure from the country. His lawyer, Paul Erokoro, SAN, sought an adjournment for cross-examination of the witness.
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the trial to May 14, 21, and 22 for further proceedings.
