The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, broke his silence in court on Wednesday following the presentation of audio and video recordings that have stirred widespread debate over their implications.
The proceedings took place at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Kanu is currently standing trial on charges including terrorism and incitement. During the session, federal prosecutors played a video allegedly showing Kanu issuing instructions to his followers, referencing the establishment of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and encouraging what prosecutors described as “defensive actions” in the Southeast.
According to the prosecution, the content of the video supports their claim that Kanu’s rhetoric incited violence and civil unrest in the region. The footage was extracted from a flash drive tendered in court, and the prosecution also attempted to introduce a certificate of compliance to validate its admissibility.
A masked witness from the Department of State Services (DSS), identified only as BBB due to security concerns, appeared as the second prosecution witness. With over two decades of experience, the DSS operative gave testimony intended to support the federal government’s claims about Kanu’s alleged role in instigating separatist activities.
In response, Kanu challenged the admissibility of the certificate and the video evidence. While he did not present detailed legal arguments at the time, he indicated to the court that his objections would be elaborated upon in subsequent proceedings. His brief remarks marked a rare courtroom statement amid months of legal silence.
Justice James Omotosho, who is presiding over the case, adjourned the trial to allow further consideration of the evidentiary submissions and Kanu’s pending objections.
The controversial nature of the recordings and the broader implications of the trial have reignited public debate over press freedom, fair trial standards, and the ongoing tension between IPOB and the Nigerian government. Reactions on social media have been sharply divided, with supporters calling the recordings manipulative, while critics argue they affirm the gravity of the charges against Kanu.
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