“Simon Ekpa Will Soon Be Returned for Trial” – DSS Tells Court During Nnamdi Kanu’s Hearing

The Department of State Services (DSS) has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that Simon Ekpa, a close associate of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, will soon be brought back to Nigeria to face trial. The disclosure was made on Friday by a DSS operative, identified as PWAAA, during the resumed hearing in Kanu’s ongoing trial.

PWAAA, testifying in court, said Ekpa was known to him as an ally of Kanu and is expected to be prosecuted for his role in supporting the secessionist movement. While under cross-examination by Kanu’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), the witness stated that only Kanu was currently being tried in connection to the pro-Biafra agitation, adding that he became aware of Ekpa’s activities through newspapers and social media.

He told the court he could not recall whether Kanu had ever condemned corruption, apologized to the President for past remarks, or clarified that IPOB was a non-violent group. He also acknowledged that while killings were ongoing in various parts of the country, he could not confirm whether they were linked to calls for self-determination.

Recalling Kanu’s 2015 arrest in a Lagos hotel, the witness stated that no weapons or incriminating materials were recovered, aside from Kanu’s personal belongings. A range of these items—including laptops, mobile devices, passports, audio equipment, and documents associated with IPOB—were tendered as evidence and admitted by the court.

PWAAA explained that his assignment was limited to Kanu’s arrest and obtaining a statement from him, which was done without legal representation. He confirmed he did not question others or confront Kanu with additional terrorism-related evidence.

Justice James Omotosho adjourned proceedings to May 6th, 7th, and 8th for further hearing.