Nnamdi Kanu’s Broadcasts Led to Killings of Ex-Aide to Jonathan, Retired Judge – DSS Witness Tells Court

A witness from the Department of State Services (DSS) told a Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday that the broadcasts of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), led to a series of deadly attacks, including the killing of Ahmed Gulak, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan. The witness resumed testimony as the second prosecution witness in Kanu’s ongoing terrorism trial, revealing that investigations showed the separatist leader’s broadcasts incited violence that resulted in the deaths of several individuals, including a retired judge, Justice Stanley Nnaji, and two intending military officers, Sergeant Audu Lucas and Private Glory Matthew.

According to the DSS official, Kanu directed his followers through a broadcast to enforce a sit-at-home order across the South-East. Those who defied the order were attacked, and in the case of Lucas and Matthew, they were reportedly beheaded. Gulak, the witness said, was targeted and killed by those enforcing Kanu’s directive after they accused him of violating the sit-at-home order. The court also heard that Kanu founded both IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and made inciting statements via Radio Biafra—an unregistered station in Nigeria—calling for violent acts, including the burning of police stations in Lagos.

The prosecution played a video recording of an interrogation session involving Kanu and DSS investigators, during which Kanu confirmed his role as the founder and leader of IPOB and ESN. The footage also showed Kanu with his lawyers, including Alloy Ejimakor, in a calm atmosphere where all parties were seen exchanging light conversations. Kanu stated in the recording that he was not directly involved in managing IPOB and ESN, claiming that coordinators from various states ran the operations. He admitted to making broadcasts concerning the EndSARS protest but argued that the demonstrations in Lagos were outside Biafran territory and could not be linked to him.

Kanu denied that IPOB was responsible for the violent attacks in the South-East, insisting it is a non-violent, peaceful movement. He justified the establishment of the ESN as a response to insecurity in the region, especially the killings that hindered locals from farming or engaging in economic activities. Kanu also recounted the military invasion of his home, which he said forced him to flee Nigeria out of fear for his life. He criticized the manner of his arrest in Kenya and subsequent extradition to Nigeria.

After the conclusion of the witness’s testimony, Kanu’s lawyer, Paul Erokoro (SAN), requested time to cross-examine the witness. Justice James Omotosho adjourned the trial to May 14, 21, and 22 for continued proceedings.