Court hands over Kanu to DSS for keeps until July 26

Following a request by the federal government in court Tuesday afteroon, Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has ordered the remand of leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu in the custody of the Department of State services (DSS).

Ruling on the request, Justice Nyako, held that the prosecution should inform Kanu’s lawyer of his rearrest and remand in the custody of the DSS.

The judge subsequently adjourned till July 26 for continuation of trial.

Recall that Kanu jumped bail in 2017 and was subsequently declared wanted by the government.

Details of how Kanu was re-arrested are still sketchy, but Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN told journalists in Abuja: “Self-aclaimed leader of the proscribed secessionist Indegenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, …has been brought back to Nigeria in order to continue facing trial after disappearing while on bail regarding 11 count charge against him.

“Recent steps taken by the Federal Government saw to the interception of the fugitive Kanu on Sunday the 27th day of June, 2021.

“Nwannekaenyi Nnamdi Ngozichukwu Okwu-Kanu, born 25th day of September, 1967 at Afaraukwu, Abia State is a holder of Nigerian Passport No. A05136827 first issued 17th October 2013 at FESTAC, Lagos.

“It is recalled that Kanu was arrested  on 14th October, 2015 on 11 count charge bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, managing an unlawful society, publication of defamatory  matter, illegal possession of firearms and improper importation of goods, among others.

“A judge at the Federal High Court, Abuja revoked Kanu’s bail that was granted him on health ground and issued a bench warrant for his arrest on the same date, over his failure to appear in court for hearing.

“He has, upon jumping bail, been accused of engaging in subversive activities that include inciting violence through television, radio and online broadcasts against Nigeria and Nigerian State and institutions.

“Kanu was also accused of instigating violence especially in the Southeastern Nigeria that resulted in the loss of lives and property of civilians, military, para military, police forces and destruction of civil institutions and symbols of authorities.”