The Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted three video recordings as evidence in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). One of the videos shows Kanu inspecting a radio transmitter, allegedly smuggled into Nigeria, at Ubuluisiuzor in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.

During a trial-within-trial session, the third prosecution witness, identified as Mr. CCC, a Department of State Services (DSS) operative, refuted claims that Kanu’s statements were obtained under duress. Kanu had alleged that he was coerced into making statements in October and November 2015, including derogatory remarks about former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, and allegations against Senator Rochas Okorocha.

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Mr. CCC testified that Kanu was treated with respect during his detention and that no threats were made to elicit statements. He also clarified that the DSS officers involved were named James, Ibrahim, and Collins, with no operative named Mr. Brown, whom Kanu had accused of making threats.

Justice James Omotosho ruled that a trial-within-trial was necessary to determine the voluntariness of Kanu’s statements, as required by the Evidence Act when allegations of coercion arise. The court will also consider the impact of the absence of Kanu’s legal representation during the statement recordings.

In the admitted videos, Kanu acknowledges being the founder and director of Radio Biafra and claims that the Biafran cause receives global support, with representatives in over 80 countries. He also refers to Nigeria as a “zoo” during an interview with US-based Sahara Reporters.

Kanu testified that he was struck by a DSS operative upon his arrest in Lagos in 2015, but the operative later apologised en route to Abuja.

The court adjourned the hearing to Thursday, 29 May, for continuation and to rule on the admissibility of the contested statements.