In a major development in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted into evidence a radio transmitter allegedly smuggled into Nigeria to aid the operations of Radio Biafra, the media arm of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The transmitter, along with a 20-foot container used to transport it from London without proper customs documentation, was presented before Justice James Omotosho during a court session held at the Department of State Services (DSS) headquarters in Abuja.
Why the Court Moved to DSS Headquarters
The unusual venue change was prompted by an oral application from the prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), who explained that it was impractical to transport the transmitter and container to the court premises. The defense, led by Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), did not oppose the request, and Justice Omotosho approved the site visit.
DSS Witness Testifies on Transmitter Discovery
The fourth prosecution witness, a DSS operative, testified that the agency received intelligence in October 2015 about a concealed FM transmitter used to power Radio Biafra, hidden in a container filled with second-hand clothes and other household items. The container was found in Ubuluisiuzor, Ihiala LGA, Anambra State, on the premises of Benjamin Madubugu, an associate of Kanu.
According to the witness, a video later surfaced showing Kanu and Madubugu inspecting the container, with Kanu calling the transmitter a “nuclear monster” that would “destroy the zoo” — a term he allegedly uses to describe Nigeria.
Weapons and Other Items Recovered
Upon executing a search warrant in Madubugu’s home, DSS agents reportedly discovered:
- The FM radio transmitter
- Two unlicensed pump-action guns
- Laptops and ammunition
- A small quantity of marijuana
The court also admitted a statement made by Madubugu in which he confirmed that Kanu had brought the container and transmitter to his home and had made inspection videos between March and April 2015.
Radio Biafra Broadcasts and Sit-at-Home Orders
The DSS also played audio recordings of Kanu’s past broadcasts where he issued sit-at-home orders, criticized South-East political leaders, and made inflammatory statements against the Nigerian government and its military.
In a broadcast dated May 29, 2021, Kanu declared:
- “If you come out on the 31st, you are going to die… the Nigerian Army is made up of cowards who always attack civilians.”
- On May 30 and 31, he called for a total lockdown across the Southeast, threatening to burn any shop that opened.
The Link Between IPOB and ESN
The DSS witness also alleged that Kanu’s Eastern Security Network (ESN) — described as IPOB’s militant arm — follows his broadcast directives. According to him, ESN operatives are trained in guerrilla tactics and have disrupted socio-economic activities in the South-East.
He mentioned a late ESN commander, Ikonso, whom Kanu allegedly vowed to bury “with 2,000 heads” after he died in a security raid in Imo State. However, an arrested IPOB member, Emeyiri Uzoma Benjamin (a.k.a Onye Army), reportedly confessed that they had only managed to obtain 30 heads.
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The court also admitted as evidence a Vanguard newspaper report detailing the alleged confession.
What’s Next?
The trial resumes on June 18, 19, and 20, with the prosecution expected to close its case. The outcome of this high-profile trial could have far-reaching implications on the activities of IPOB, Radio Biafra, and Nigeria’s national security framework.
Stay with Naija Blog Daily for continuous updates on Nnamdi Kanu’s trial, IPOB developments, and other top stories across Nigeria’s political and legal landscape.
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