Court relocates to DSS Headquarters to inspect seized alleged IPOB smuggled container in Nnamdi Kanu’s case

Published

June 13, 2025

Court relocates to DSS Headquarters to inspects seized IPOB smuggled container in Nnamdi Kanu’s caze

Part of the proceedings of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja was on Friday, moved to the Department of State Services (DSS) Headquarters in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The decision of the court to conduct the proceeding in the DSS headquarters was informed by an oral application by the Federal Government’s lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, before Justice James Omotosho.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Awomolo had prayed the court to inspect the radio transmitter and a 20-foot container allegedly used by Kanu to convey it into the country from London, without relevant Customs documentations, while applying to tender them as evidence.
The lawyer said the two items were kept in the DSS’ facility.
Awomolo made the application midway into the testimony of the 4th prosecution witness (PW-4), who among others, testified about how the transmitter and the container were recovered in a premises in Ubuluisiuzor in Ihiala Local Government of Anambra.
The lawyer told the court that it was impossible for the prosecution to bring the transmitter and the container to the court premises.
He therefore, urged the court to relocate to where they are kept for the purpose of sighting and for the prosecution to tender them appropriately.
The defence counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, did not object to Awomolo’s application which was subsequently granted by the judge.
Justice Omotosho then directed that the transmitter and the container should be inspected in company of the journalists in court.
After the inspection, the judge admitted the transmitter as Exhibit-Y and the container as Exhibit-Z during a brief proceeding conducted within the premises of the DSS’ office in Abuja.
Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter until June 18, June 19 and June 20 within which the prosecution is expected to close its case.
Earlier in his testimony, the PW-4, a DSS operative, identified as DDD for security reasons, told the court that he knew Kanu as the leader of IPOB, a group campaigning for the secession of the South Eastern states, parts of the South South states, Benue and Kogi from Nigeria to form a Biafra Republic.
He said Kanu utilised his Radio Biafra to propagate his messages and incite his followers to engage in violence and other terrorism activities.
The witness, who said he was among those who investigated the allegations against Kanu, told the court that sometimes in October 2015, his agency got intelligence that Kanu smuggled into the country an FM radio transmitter, in a container.
He said the transmitter, which was concealed among household items in the container, was not declared to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and that It was to be used for Radio Biafra.
The witness said he later saw a video where the defendant (Kanu) and one of his associates, Benjamin Madubugu were inspecting the transmitter, which they described as a game changer.
“After I watched the video, I was instructed to obtain a warrant, locate the transmitter and relocate it,” the witness said.
The PW-4 said he and others located the transmitter in the premises where Modubugu lived with his family and a brother named Francis and relocated it.
He said when the search warrant, obtained from a Chief Magistrates Court in Ihiala, Anambra, was executed in the residence of Benjamin Madubugu at Ubuluisiuzor, they found the radio transmitter in a 20-feet container; two pump action guns (without licenses), lap top computers, some ammunition, small quantity of marijuana, among others.
“The transmitter was concealed with household items, including second hand clothes.
“When we asked Benjamin about the other items that we saw in the video, he said one Chimezie came to take them away.”
Awomolo subsequently tendered a video recording, showing Kanu, inspecting the container and its contents, including the transmitter, in evidence.
The video showed Kanu, being assisted by an individual and being recorded by another, opened the container, identified all its contents and explained how the transmitter would be deployed.
The video also showed Kanu, while his hand was on the transmitter and said: “This is the monster itself. This is what will destroy enemies of Biafra…this is nuclear munster that will destroy the zoo.”
When asked what Kanu meant by “the zoo,” the witness said the defendant was referring to Nigeria.
The witness said Kanu inspected the container in Madubugu’s premises in Ubuluisiuzor in Ihiala, Anambra State.
He said after recovering the transmitter, they arrested Madubugu, who later made statement, detailing how the container got to his premises.
The statement, written by Madubugu on November 3, 2015, was admitted in evidence by the court and later read by the witness.
In the statement, Madubugu admitted among others, that he agreed to house the container on the grounds that he will keep it (the container) after all the contents have been evacuated.
Madubugu said Kanu came to inspect that container and said it would be used to broadcast Radio Biafra activities.
He added that Kanu came to his house with Chimezie between March and April 2015 to make the video of the inspection of the container.
The witness said Madubugu was later arraigned with Kanu before the former judge handling the case, Justice Binta Nyako.
He added that the joint trial was later separated when Kanu jumped bail, adding that Madubugu is still on trial before Justice Nyako.
PW-4, who said he once served in the South East, told the court that the activities of members of IPOB and its military wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), had greatly hampered the socio-economic life of that part of the country.
The witness said: “ESN is the military arm of IPOB. All ESN members are IPOB members, but not all IPOB members are ESN.
“They carry out instructions of the defendant, which he broadcast through Radio Biafra. They are trained in the act of gorilla warfare.
“They engage in acts of terrorism. They maim, kill and propagate hate against other ethnic groups, particularly the Hausa/Fulani.”
The witness said his agency has a desk assigned to monitor and record every broadcast made by Kanu on Radio Biafra.
Awomolo later tendered some audio recordings of the broadcast, which the court admitted in evidence.
In one of the broadcast, which the defendant made on May 29, 2021, Kanu used disparaging words in describing Minister of Works, David Umahi; former Governor of Imo, Rochas Okorocha, and his successor, Hope Uzodinma
He described South East political leaders as “fools, vagabonds and idiots” and proceeded to declare a sit-at-home for May 31, 2021.
Kanu warned that anybody who disobeyed his sit-at-home order and ventured out of his or her house on the said day would die.
“If you come out on the 31, you are going to die and if the zoo army tries anything, they will be confronted,” Kanu said, claiming that “the Nigerian Army is made up of cowards, who always attack civilians.”
In another broadcast he made on May 30, 2021, Kanu called for complete and total lockdown in the south east and warned that whoever opened his or her shop would be burnt with the shop.
In his broadcast on May 31, 2021, Kanu was heard telling his followers that he did not asked them to attack businesses in the area, but to focus on their enemies.
The PW-4 said he knew a commander of ESN called Nwokike Anyinayo Andy, who was popularly known as Ikonso, but killed by security forces on the April 24, 2021 in his home town, Awomama, Oru East Local Government of Imo State.
The witness said Kanu did a broadcast on April 25, 2021, in which he mourned the death of Ikonso, spoke highly of him and vowed that there shall be repercussion.
Kanu claimed that Ikonso was killed in his sleep in his home by state security personnel and not on the battlefield.
The witness said Kanu stated that Ikonso would be mourned in a very special way and would be buried in a very special way as well.
He told the court that in one of his broadcasts, Kanu claimed that Ikonso would be buried with 2000 heads, but that when they arrested an IPOB member – Emeyiri Uzoma Benjamin, known as Onye Army – he made statement and said they were only able to get 30 heads.
The prosecution tendered through the witness a publication in Vanguard newspaper, detailing the alleged statement made by Benjamin.(NAN)

News

Three police officers, one army captain get community impact award

Published

7 hours ago

June 12, 2026

olalekan

3 police officers, 1 army captain get community impact award

Three police officers and one army captain have received the prestigious Community Impact Award for professionalism and humility in the line of duty from the Youth Initiative for Fitness and Impact (YIFI).

The awardees are Capt. Ishaq Abdulhamid, Officer Commanding (OC), Forward Operational Base (FOB) Bwari, and DCP Toyin Sulyman, Deputy Commissioner, Special Protection Unit (SPU), Force Headquarters, Abuja.

Others are ACP Michael Tarfa, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Homicide, FCID, and CSP Ajaegbu Onyeka, Area Crime Officer, Karu Area Command.

Speaking at the award presentation, the National President of YIFI, Kenneth Chima, said the awards were part of activities to mark Global Wellness Day (GWD) coming up on June 13.

According to him, the day was established as a non-profit social project in 2012 to promote holistic well-being and healthier lifestyles.

”It was created in Turkey in 2012 by Belgin Aksoy and is now celebrated in over 100 countries with entirely complimentary and volunteer-led activities.

“Today is a very special day for us in YIFI, because it is part of our activities to mark GWD, coming up on Saturday.

“As our name implies, fitness, we deem it fit to recognise and appreciate exceptional police officers who have done well in their professions.”

He explained that some of the officers were nominated, screened and vetted.

”We have approved them. That is why we are here.

“We gave a Community Impact Award to these exceptional officers who have demonstrated superior dedication and commitment to community safety and peace.

“We did this to appreciate and encourage them to continue to exhibit these good deeds. When you die, the only thing that can speak for you is not your words but your deeds,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Tarfa appreciated YIFI for the award.

“It is an honour that I appreciate. I pledge to do more. I will not relent, in spite of any pressure.

”By the special grace of God, I will continue to protect lives and property and ensure that the people have a better life.

“This award is coming at a good time and I want to appreciate you for recognising me. On behalf of other recipients, we are grateful,” Tarfa stressed.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that YIFI will host a fitness and wellness event in Bwari on June 13 to commemorate GWD. (NAN)

News

*Senate orders Police to arrest bandits doing millions of naira giveaways on TikTok

Published

7 hours ago

June 12, 2026

olalekan

The Senate has called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and enforcement against bandits and terrorists who openly display their criminal activities and proceeds on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, amid rising concerns over the growing use of digital platforms by criminal networks.

The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District, on the escalating wave of bandit attacks and terrorist incursions in Kogi West and other parts of the country.

During the debate, lawmakers also backed an additional prayer moved by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, urging coordinated action by the Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre and other security agencies to track, monitor and arrest individuals using social media to publicise criminal operations.

Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed concern that armed groups were increasingly leveraging social media not only to flaunt illicit wealth but also to conduct public displays of influence.

“Bandits and terrorists who carry out these activities live on their social media handles. Two days ago, bandits conducted a giveaway, distributing over ₦100m within the space of 30 minutes through their social media handles, especially TikTok,” she said.

She questioned why such online activities had not led to arrests despite clear digital footprints.

“I wonder why the Cybercrime Unit and the Police Force generally cannot track these activities and apprehend them since they are on social media. Therefore, I urge the Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre to track and arrest these individuals,” she stated.

The motion was seconded by Senator Osita Ngwu of Enugu West Senatorial District and enjoyed broad support across party lines, reflecting growing legislative alarm over the intersection of insecurity and unchecked online criminal exposure.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the trend as a direct challenge to state authority and an indication of rising impunity among criminal groups.

“The Department of State Services should be able to track their movements and arrest them because this is a show of impunity, as if there is no law at all,” he said.

He warned that the circulation of videos showing cash displays and criminal activities online was being used to undermine government institutions.

“I do not see why we should not have control over the social media space. That idea of showing themselves, showing the cash collected and displaying it is a way of challenging the government,” he added.

Akpabio urged security and intelligence agencies to treat the matter as an urgent national security priority, calling for stronger coordination and real-time digital monitoring.

“I want the security agencies and heads of security services to see this as a major challenge. Whenever anybody finds such content, bring it to the attention of the Senate, and we shall invite the relevant federal authorities to explain why those people have not been apprehended,” he said.

He also stressed the need for transparency in enforcement efforts, insisting that Nigerians must be informed when arrests and prosecutions are made.

“If they are apprehended, they should also report back so that Nigerians can know that those who openly show their faces while committing crimes are being arrested and prosecuted,” the Senate President stated.

News

Questions, reaction over reported death of 200 Amotekun operatives

Published

8 hours ago

June 12, 2026

olalekan

Oyo APC demands clarification over reported death of 200 Amotekun operatives

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has described as “saddening, alarming and unacceptable” the reported death of more than 200 operatives of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun Corps, in undisclosed circumstances.

The party called on Governor Seyi Makinde to provide full details surrounding the revelation and ensure adequate protection for security personnel and residents across the state.

Governor Makinde had on Saturday, May 30, during a sympathy visit to Oriire Local Government Area, disclosed that over 200 Amotekun operatives had lost their lives in active service, without giving further explanation of the circumstances leading to their deaths. The visit followed an attack on Friday, May 15, in which suspected bandits killed two people and abducted over 40 schoolchildren and teachers.

Reacting on Thursday, the Oyo APC, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, in Ibadan, expressed shock at what it described as the governor’s “flippancy” in handling such a sensitive disclosure.

“With this ugly development, there is no denying the fact that the current administration in Oyo does not attach much importance to the lives of the people,” the party said.

“How can a governor mention the death of over 200 dedicated crime fighters flippantly and without any recourse to the feelings of their family members and loved ones? Why did the governor withhold information on the high casualty figures of the slain Amotekun Corps?” it queried.

The APC argued that the reported fatalities raised concerns about the level of insecurity in the state, suggesting that crime may have reached an alarming peak.

“For Oyo to have recorded such a high number of fatalities among its security team, it indicates that crime rates in the state have reached the crescendo while the state government covers up a whole lot of things,” the statement added.

The party also raised questions about the welfare, training, and operational structure of the Amotekun Corps, urging reforms and improved coordination with federal security agencies.

“The revelation by the governor also raises a lot of questions regarding the condition of service in the Amotekun Corps Service,” it said.

“From our own discreet investigations, we found that Makinde has failed to work a synergy between the corps and the federal security agencies on account of needless ego and cluelessness,” the APC added.

It further urged the state government to strengthen security coordination and prioritize professional standards within the corps.

“The practice whereby Amotekun Corps members are being deployed to man hotels, properties and business facilities belonging to friends and political associates of the governor should be stopped, while only competent hands should be recruited, even as training, retraining and good welfare packages must be put in place for the officials for them to operate under minimum risk and high motivation,” the party stated.