The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday admitted the medical report and death certificate of late presidential adviser, Ahmed Gulak, as evidence in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Gulak was murdered in Imo State in 2021 by suspected IPOB members, according to the Federal Government. At the resumed hearing, the prosecution tendered the documents through its witness (PWBBB), and they were accepted without objection from Kanu’s defence team, led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).
The prosecution also submitted a police report from Owerri linking Gulak’s death to gunmen alleged to be IPOB operatives. Kanu is facing a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony.
So far, two witnesses have testified, with several documents, including video and audio recordings allegedly showing Kanu ordering attacks, tendered in court.
However, the defence raised serious concerns. Agabi questioned the credibility of the video footage, noting that only Kanu and his team were visible. The witness claimed it was standard procedure and couldn’t recall if he wore a mask during the recording.
Agabi also criticized Kanu’s prolonged detention and alleged solitary confinement, which the witness denied knowledge of, saying he was only an investigator.
Further scrutiny revealed the witness didn’t draft the charges and wasn’t aware of amendments or the timeline of their filing. The defence noted that Kanu was never confronted with any accuser, despite repeated changes in the charges.
A short adjournment was granted after the defence complained about delays in accessing crucial police records. While the prosecution opposed the move, Justice James Omotosho emphasized the need for fairness.
“The matter holds international and domestic attention,” the judge said, warning against unnecessary delays. He urged both parties to use the time wisely in pursuit of justice.
Justice Omotosho also addressed social media claims about DSS denying access to Kanu. While Agabi denied such reports, the judge warned Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, against sharing unverified claims online.
The trial resumes on May 21.
