Tension In Abuja As Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial Resumes – Nation Holds Its Breath

The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the embattled leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resumed on Tuesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

During the hearing, Justice James Omotosho granted the Federal Government’s request for its witnesses to testify behind protective screens, citing the sensitive nature of the case and national security concerns.

Kanu’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), informed the court that 22 lawyers were present for the defence. However, the judge maintained that only the previously listed 13 lawyers would be officially recognised. Among them are four additional senior advocates: Audu Nunghe, Joseph Akubo, Emeka Etiaba, and Onyechi Ikpeazu.

Witness Protection Approved

Prosecution counsel Adegboyega Awolowo disclosed that an earlier ex parte application had been submitted, seeking court approval for witness shielding during testimony. He emphasized that the volatile nature of the case and threats to national security necessitated such protective measures.

Justice Omotosho granted the application, allowing prosecution witnesses to appear behind screens.

According to Naija News, Kanu was initially arrested in Lagos on October 14, 2015, after returning from the United Kingdom. He was granted bail on medical grounds on April 25, 2017, after spending roughly 18 months in detention and was released from Kuje Prison on April 28, 2017.

However, he fled the country midway through the trial following a military raid on his residence in Afara Ukwu Ibeku, Umuahia, Abia State — an operation that reportedly resulted in the deaths of several of his supporters.