DSS: Kanu’s Broadcasts Sparked Violence, Crippled South-East Economy

The Department of State Services (DSS) informed the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday that broadcasts by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), significantly disrupted the economy in Nigeria’s South-East region.

Testifying as the fourth prosecution witness, a DSS operative identified as “Mr DDD” for security reasons, told Justice James Omotosho that Kanu’s messages incited the militant wing of IPOB, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), to enforce the group’s sit-at-home directive.

According to the witness, Kanu's broadcasts played a major role in the region’s economic stagnation. He alleged that Kanu smuggled a radio transmitter into the country, concealing it among household items to bypass customs. The device was reportedly hidden in the home of Benjamin Madubougu in Ihiala, Anambra State.

Mr DDD explained that Kanu used the transmitter to spread violent and separatist messages. During a raid, DSS operatives recovered the device alongside firearms, ammunition, Biafran currency, and cannabis. The search was conducted under a warrant issued by the Ihiala Chief Magistrate Court on October 28, 2015.

Video footage presented in court showed Kanu praising the transmitter as a “game changer” and likening it to a “nuclear weapon” for Biafra. In the same video, he threatened anyone who would defy IPOB’s May 31, 2021 sit-at-home order.

The prosecution submitted a flash drive containing 18 video clips and 16 radio broadcasts by Kanu, which the court accepted as evidence. Also submitted was a statement from Benjamin Madubougu confirming the transmitter lacked customs documentation.

Additionally, the court admitted a Vanguard newspaper report quoting an alleged ESN member claiming that Kanu ordered the collection of 2,000 human heads for ritual purposes—though only 30 were reportedly obtained. The defence objected, but the court accepted the publication, supported by a certificate of compliance.

The prosecution requested the court visit the DSS facility at the Presidential Villa to inspect the transmitter and related evidence. Justice Omotosho approved the request and adjourned proceedings, stressing the importance of a thorough review of all evidence.

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