A Federal Government witness admitted before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday that no weapons linked to terrorism or violence were found on Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), during his arrest on October 15, 2015, in Lagos.
The witness, an operative of the Department of State Services (DSS) identified as PWAAA, also confirmed that no items capable of public disturbance were recovered from the woman arrested alongside Kanu.
During cross-examination by Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), the witness stated that all items seized were personal belongings of the IPOB leader. While he acknowledged that the items might not be inherently offensive, he speculated that the defendant’s intentions could differ.
PWAAA admitted that he did not analyze the recovered items, as his role was limited to effecting the arrest and obtaining Kanu’s statement. Although the defendant’s phone was analyzed, the results were not submitted as evidence, deemed immaterial to the case. He further stated that the confiscated items, held for nearly a decade, may have depreciated and lost their value.
The witness also revealed that Kanu’s statement was obtained without his lawyer present. He admitted having no knowledge of anyone prosecuted by the Federal Government solely for advocating for Biafra, except Simon Ekpa, who, according to him, is expected to face trial soon.
Responding to questions, the DSS operative said he relied on media reports for information about individuals supporting Kanu’s cause. He could not recall Kanu criticizing corruption, youth unemployment, or issuing an apology to the President or Igbo leaders. Additionally, he could not remember Kanu describing IPOB as a peaceful organization or commenting on the group’s stance on armed resistance.
The court also reviewed a list of items confiscated from Kanu, including electronic devices, communication gadgets, personal effects, and travel documents.
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to May 6th, 7th, and 8th for continued cross-examination.