By Ayomide Otitoju
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday heard testimony alleging that Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), smuggled a radio transmitter into Nigeria concealed among household items.
Testifying as the fourth prosecution witness, a Department of State Services (DSS) operative, identified only as Mr. DDD, told the court that the transmitter was hidden at the Ihiala, Anambra State home of one Benjamin Madubougu and was not declared to the Nigeria Customs Service upon entry.
According to the witness, the transmitter was used by Kanu to broadcast secessionist messages and incite violence. A certified search warrant from the Ihiala Chief Magistrate Court, dated October 28, 2015, was admitted in evidence alongside a video showing Kanu inspecting the equipment.
In the video, played in open court, Kanu reportedly described the transmitter as a “nuclear weapon” for Biafra and issued threats against those who would disobey IPOB’s sit-at-home order scheduled for May 31, 2021.
The DSS witness told the court that the broadcast had a direct economic impact on the South-East region, citing disruptions allegedly enforced by IPOB’s militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The prosecution also submitted a flash drive containing 18 video clips and 16 radio broadcasts attributed to Kanu. Additionally, a statement by Madubougu was tendered, admitting that the transmitter was smuggled into the country without customs clearance.
Among the evidence admitted was a newspaper article in which an alleged ESN member claimed Kanu had ordered the collection of 2,000 human heads for burial rites—though only 30 were reportedly obtained. Despite objections by the defence, the court admitted the publication along with a certificate of compliance.
Following an application by the prosecution, the court granted permission to inspect the container that housed the transmitter, which is currently stored at the DSS facility in Abuja.
Presiding judge, Justice James Omotoso, emphasized the court’s responsibility to thoroughly examine all evidence in pursuit of justice. During a brief proceeding held at the DSS premises, the court admitted the container and the radio transmitter as exhibits PWY and PWZ, respectively.
Further hearings have been scheduled for June 18, 19, and 20, during which the prosecution is expected to close its case.
