Nnamdi Kanu’s Directives Led to Killings, Arson Even Death of Gulak, Reveals Witness
A Federal High Court in Abuja heard shocking testimony yesterday as a witness linked Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to the killings of several individuals, including a former presidential aide and a retired judge.
The witness, a member of the Department of State Services (DSS) team that investigated the complaint against Kanu, alleged that the defendant’s broadcasts on Radio Biafra incited violence and led to the murder of Ahmed Gulak, a former Senior Special Assistant to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, as well as Justice Stanley Nnaji, a retired judge, and a young military couple, Sergeant Audu Lucas and Private Glory Matthew.
The witness also claimed that Kanu’s broadcasts led to the burning of police stations in Cele and Ilasa, Lagos, and the destruction of about 100 luxury buses belonging to the Lagos State Government and part of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos State.
The witness alleged that Kanu called for the killing of security officers and even advocated for their beheading, which was carried out by his followers.
The court also watched a video recording of an interrogation session between Kanu and DSS officials, where the defendant confirmed being the founder and leader of IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of IPOB.
Kanu, however, denied being directly involved in the day-to-day running of both organizations and claimed that he did not have authority over his members.
Kanu also denied that IPOB was responsible for the violent attacks in some parts of the Southeast and the killings witnessed, describing the group as a “peaceful movement” and a “non-violent movement.”
He explained that the establishment of ESN was necessitated by the killings of people in the Southeast and the need to protect them.
The defendant also faulted the invasion of his house by soldiers, which he said led to his departure from the country, and argued that his arrest in Kenya and subsequent return to Nigeria was unlawful.
The trial has been adjourned until May 14, 21, and 22 for further hearing, with the defense seeking an adjournment to cross-examine the witness.
The case has sparked widespread interest and concern, with many Nigerians eagerly following the developments.
