Federal government witnesses will testify behind screen in Nnamdi Kanu’s terrorism trial.
Witnesses set to testify against the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, will give their testimony behind camera.
The decision was made following a request by the Federal Government, represented by counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN).
Following Awomolo’s request, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, granted permission for the witnesses to testify behind a screen in the terrorism case against Kanu.
Kanu is facing a seven-count terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.
The Federal High Court in Abuja granted the Federal Government’s request to allow witnesses testify behind a screen in the terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This decision was made due to the sensitive nature of the case and concerns for the witnesses’ safety, as they are security personnel and intelligence operatives.
*Key Details:*
– *Charges Against Kanu:* Kanu faces a seven-count terrorism charge, including incitement and unlawful possession of firearms.
– *Witness Protection:* The witnesses will testify behind a screen to protect their identities from public exposure, but will still be visible to the judge and lawyers.
– *First Witness:* The prosecution has called its first witness, identified as PWAAA, who has begun testifying.
– *Defense Response:* Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), did not oppose the application but requested reciprocal cooperation from the Federal Government during bail hearings.¹ ²
*Trial Context:*
The trial has drawn global attention, raising questions about national unity, freedom of speech, and human rights in Nigeria. Kanu has been held in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his repatriation from Kenya in 2021.
