A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has admitted into evidence a radio transmitter and a 20-foot container allegedly smuggled into Nigeria by the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. The transmitter, reportedly used to broadcast Radio Biafra, was tendered by the prosecution and admitted by Justice James Omotosho during proceedings held at the Department of State Services (DSS) headquarters in Abuja.

 

The court relocated the hearing from its usual courtroom to the DSS facility following a request by the prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), who argued it was impractical to transport the transmitter and container to court. The defence, led by Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), did not oppose the motion.

 

Testifying as the fourth prosecution witness (PW4), a DSS operative told the court that in October 2015, intelligence reports revealed that Kanu had smuggled a concealed FM radio transmitter into Nigeria inside a container filled with household items, including second-hand clothes. The transmitter was allegedly intended for broadcasting Radio Biafra’s secessionist messages.

 

The witness recounted that during a search at the Anambra home of Kanu’s associate, Benjamin Madubugu, agents recovered the transmitter, two unlicensed pump-action guns, ammunition, laptops, and a small amount of marijuana. A video showing Kanu inspecting the transmitter was also presented as evidence. In the footage, Kanu called the device a “monster” that would “destroy the enemies of Biafra,” referring to Nigeria as “the zoo.”

 

The witness further stated that Madubugu admitted in a written statement that Kanu brought the container to his residence and claimed it would be used for Radio Biafra broadcasts. Madubugu also revealed that he allowed the container on the condition he could keep it after its contents were offloaded.

 

Additional evidence included audio clips of Kanu’s past broadcasts in which he reportedly incited violence, insulted political leaders from the South East, and issued threats. In one instance, he ordered a sit-at-home on May 31, 2021, warning that violators would be killed. He also warned business owners that their shops would be burned if they opened.

 

The DSS witness linked Kanu’s broadcasts to the activities of IPOB’s militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), claiming they have disrupted socio-economic life in the South East and engage in terrorist activities.

 

Further testimony linked Kanu to the late ESN commander, Ikonso, whom Kanu praised after his death and promised a special burial, allegedly involving the beheading of 2000 people—though an arrested IPOB member reportedly confirmed only 30.

 

The court admitted all tendered exhibits, including video and newspaper reports, and adjourned the case to June 18, 19, and 20 for continuation and possible conclusion of the prosecution’s case.