Court Grants FG Request to Shield Witnesses in Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial

A Federal High Court in Abuja has approved the federal government’s request to shield the identities of witnesses testifying in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The decision was made following an ex parte application filed by the prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, dated April 10. Awomolo asked the court to allow the use of screens and masks during witness testimonies to ensure the safety and security of state officials involved in the case. Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi, did not oppose the application.

The trial, which resumed recently, has already seen the first witness—a Department of State Services (DSS) operative—take the stand. Kanu, who faces charges of terrorism and treasonable felony, has been in DSS custody since 2021. He was re-arraigned on March 21 before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja.