FG hides witnesses’ identity in Nnamdi Kanu’s trial as court gives nod

Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved the Federal Government's application to shield the identities of prosecution witnesses in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This decision aims to protect the witnesses' safety amid the sensitive nature of the case.

Kanu faces seven counts of terrorism and treason, charges he has consistently denied. The trial, now under its fourth judge, Justice James Omotosho, has experienced multiple delays due to judicial recusals and bail denials. Trial dates have been set for April 29, May 2, and May 6, 2025.

The court's ruling permits witnesses to testify behind screens or via video link, ensuring their identities remain undisclosed to the public and defense. This measure is intended to prevent potential intimidation or harm to the witnesses.

Kanu, a British citizen, was first arrested in 2015 but fled Nigeria in 2017 while on bail. He was re-arrested in Kenya in 2021 and has since been in the custody of Nigeria's Department of State Services (DSS). His legal team has raised concerns about his detention conditions and the fairness of the trial, citing his health issues and the circumstances of his extradition.

The IPOB, which Kanu leads, advocates for the secession of southeastern Nigeria, predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group. The Nigerian government has designated IPOB as a terrorist organization. The region's previous attempt to secede as the Republic of Biafra in 1967 led to a three-year civil war, resulting in over a million deaths.

As the trial progresses, the court's decision to protect witness identities underscores the case's complexity and the government's emphasis on national security.