A Department of State Services (DSS) investigator told the Federal High Court, Abuja, that between 170 and 200 security operatives have been killed in Nigeria’s South-East since 2021, allegedly by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Key points from Wednesday’s hearing
What the court heard Details
Security fatalities Up to 200 officers from the DSS, police, military and other agencies slain in the region.
Radio Biafra transmitter DSS says IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu imported an FM transmitter without a licence from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
Orders to attack An ESN operative, “Onye Army,” allegedly told investigators Kanu gave direct instructions to target security personnel.
Human-head ritual claims Witness testified that ESN members tried to gather 2,000 human heads for the burial of slain commander “Ikonso,” but secured about 30.
Ahmed Gulak killing Former presidential aide was shot dead on 30 May 2021 in Owerri; DSS blames IPOB gunmen operating checkpoints that day.
Inside the testimony
Led by senior prosecutor Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the DSS officer (fourth prosecution witness) said:
A recovered German-made FM transmitter was traced to a compound in Ubuluisiuzor, Anambra State.
The NBC inspected the device and confirmed IPOB lacked any broadcast licence in Nigeria.
Kanu allegedly shot a video of himself with the transmitter to prove to supporters that their donations were used.
Under cross-examination, defence counsel Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, queried the lack of import documentation, suggesting the equipment may have been cleared legally. The witness stood by his claims, adding that two firearms were also recovered at the Anambra location.
Next steps
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the trial to Thursday, 19 June 2025, for the prosecution to present its fifth witness. Kanu faces multiple counts related to terrorism, illegal broadcasting and incitement.
