posted 29th April 2025
Nigerian Government’s Witnesses to Testify Against Nnamdi Kanu Behind Protective Screen in Terrorism Trial
Abuja, 29 April 2025 – Witnesses for the Nigerian government in the terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will give their testimony from behind a protective screen, following a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday.
The decision came after a request by the government, represented by counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), who argued that shielding the identities of the witnesses was necessary due to the sensitive nature of the terrorism charges. “It is imperative to protect their identities and ensure their safety,” Awomolo told the court.
Justice James Omotosho granted the ex-parte application, ruling that the witnesses would testify behind a screen, remaining unseen by the public but visible to the judge and lawyers. The prosecution promptly called its first witness, identified as PWAAA, marking the official start of the government’s case against Kanu.
Kanu’s legal team, led by Kanu Agabi (SAN), a former Attorney-General of the Federation, did not oppose the application. However, Agabi urged the government to show “reciprocity” in future proceedings, particularly regarding a potential bail application for Kanu. The defence team includes six Senior Advocates of Nigeria: Agabi, Uchenna Njoku, Prof. Onyechi Ikpeazu, Emeka Etiaba, Mela Audu Nunghe, and Dr. Joseph Akubo.
The government, represented by three Senior Advocates, reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the seven-count treason and terrorism charges against Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021.
The trial, expected to be a closely watched legal battle, continues amidst heightened public interest.
