The Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted video evidence of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), inspecting a Radio Biafra transmitter.
The development occurred during the ongoing trial of Kanu, who is facing charges related to treasonable felony and terrorism.
According to reports, the transmitter in question was allegedly smuggled into the country and kept in Ubuluisiuzor, Anambra State.
The video footage, which was played in court, shows Kanu inspecting the transmitter, sparking controversy over his alleged involvement in broadcasting activities.
Allegations of Duress
Kanu’s lawyers have claimed that their client was subjected to duress and coercion during his detention, alleging that DSS operatives forced him to write statements without the presence of his lawyers. However, the prosecution has denied these allegations, maintaining that Kanu’s statements were made voluntarily.
Trial-Within-Trial
The court has ordered a trial-within-trial to determine the voluntariness of Kanu’s statements. During the trial-within-trial, Kanu testified that he was struck by a DSS operative and later apologized for the incident.
The court adjourned the case until May 29 for continuation of the hearing and ruling on the admissibility of the statements.
Kanu has been in detention since 2021, when he was rearrested and brought back to Nigeria to face trial. The IPOB leader has been accused of treasonable felony and terrorism, among other charges. His trial has sparked controversy, with many calling for his release and others demanding that he faces the full weight of the law.
The case continues to unfold, with the court’s decision on the admissibility of Kanu’s statements expected to play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the trial.
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