Court grants FG’s request for witnesses to testify behind screen in Nnamdi Kanu’s trial

In a significant development in the terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Federal High Court in Abuja has approved a request for prosecution witnesses to testify behind a screen.

The request was made by the Federal Government’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Adegboyega Awomolo. Justice James Omotosho granted the application on Tuesday, allowing the identities of the witnesses to be concealed during their appearance in court.

This move, the government argued, is intended to ensure the safety and protection of those set to testify in the high-profile case, which has drawn national and international attention.

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Kanu is facing a seven-count terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.

During the court session, Justice Omotosho ruled on an ex-parte application filed by Awomolo.

The Federal Government’s counsel argued that the identities of the witnesses needed to be protected for security reasons, given the sensitive nature of the terrorism charges.

Awomolo requested that the names of the witnesses be shielded from public disclosure to ensure their safety.

Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), did not oppose the application. As a result, Justice Omotosho granted the request.

However, Agabi sought reciprocal cooperation from the Federal Government when a bail application for Kanu is argued.

Following the agreement between parties in the suit, the Federal Government’s proceeded to call its first witness, identified as PWAAA.

The witness has commenced giving testimony as the prosecution formally opens its case against Kanu.