The trial of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, resumed today at the Federal High Court in Abuja with dramatic courtroom events, video evidence, and heated legal arguments. The presiding judge adjourned the case to May 14th, 21st, and 22nd to allow the defense team time to prepare for the cross-examination of the prosecution’s witness.
Video Interrogation Played in Court
A major highlight of today’s proceedings was the courtroom viewing of a video interview of Nnamdi Kanu conducted shortly after his arrest. In the video, Kanu firmly declared:
“I am the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.”
Kanu recalled how he was granted bail in 2017 but claimed his home was later invaded by the military in an attempt to “unalive” him, resulting in the death of over 28 people.
When asked about the October 2020 EndSARS protest, he distanced IPOB from the demonstrations, especially the one that occurred in Lagos, saying:
“The protest took place in Lagos, which is not Biafra territory, so it cannot be attributed to anything Biafra.”
He also addressed how IPOB communicates with its members:
“We have the Directorate of State. We are republican in nature; you can’t control 100% of everyone’s activities.”
Defending the Establishment of ESN
One of the most significant revelations came when Kanu was asked about the Eastern Security Network (ESN). He admitted to founding ESN and stated clearly:
“Yes, I established ESN to protect our people and our farmlands.”
When asked to differentiate ESN from other vigilante groups, Kanu replied:
“I can’t say. My job is to make sure our land is secured. The governors have failed us, and we need to protect our lands.”
He described ESN as a non-violent vigilante network that operates in the bushes to safeguard Igbo communities.
“They are in the bush to protect our mothers as they go to the farm.”
When pressed for the number of ESN members, he said:
“I can’t recall.”
Kanu denied allegations that IPOB members attacked security personnel or were involved in any violent uprisings. He insisted:
“We are not violent people. I completely disagree with that statement.”
He also rejected the claim that he was arrested, stating:
“I wasn’t arrested, I was kidnapped.”
May 30th Sit-at-Home & Personal Background
The video continued with the interviewer asking about the May 30th sit-at-home order, to which Kanu responded lightly, cracking a joke that drew laughter from those present. The interviewer probed further about Kanu’s background, to which he responded:
“I’m from Abia State.”
When asked what he had been doing since he left Nigeria, he interrupted:
“No, point of correction, I saved my life.”
Asked about his activities abroad, Kanu retorted:
“It’s my business.”
Kanu’s legal team reportedly refused him signing the statement shown in the video.
Prosecution Evidence and Attorney General’s Letter
The court also admitted into evidence a letter from the Attorney-General, which was read aloud. The prosecution alleged that:
Kanu used Radio Biafra, an unregistered platform, to make inciting broadcasts;
His broadcasts led to the destruction of the Ilasamaja Police Station, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, and several other properties in Lagos during the 2020 EndSARS protest;
His sit-at-home orders in the Southeast caused widespread unrest and loss of lives, including police officers.
Arguments Over Cross-Examination and Adjournment
While the prosecution pushed for accelerated hearing and immediate cross-examination, the defense team, led by respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria Kanu Agabi, requested more time to gather necessary information.
The court ultimately agreed with the defense and adjourned further hearing to May 14th, 21st, and 22nd.
