DSS Witness Testifies in Kanu Trial: Unlike Amotekun, IPOB’s Eastern Security Network Is an Illegal Organization Without Legal Backing
A second prosecution witness in the trial of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu told the Federal High Court in Abuja that the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the security wing of IPOB, is an illegal group without any legal authorization.
The witness, known only by the initials “BBB,” is an operative of the Department of State Services (DSS). During re-examination by prosecution counsel Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, he explained that ESN was formed in December 2020 by the banned separatist group as a response to attacks on Igbo communities by bandits and herdsmen. However, he emphasized that ESN operates without any statutory backing.
“My lord, while ESN is not a legally recognized organization, Amotekun was created through laws passed by the Houses of Assembly in the six South-West states,” the witness testified. He highlighted that unlike ESN, Amotekun is a lawful security outfit designed to support official agencies in fighting crime.
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During cross-examination by defence lawyer Paul Erokoro, SAN, the court admitted several defense exhibits including a certified true copy of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry report on EndSARS victims, a flash drive with video clips, and a certificate of compliance.
The video shown in court included statements from top Nigerian officials such as DSS Director General Adeola Ajayi, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and former Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. T.Y. Danjuma. Ajayi urged communities to work with security agencies against criminals. Governor Uzodinma denied ESN’s involvement in the killings of politicians in Orlu, blaming opposition forces instead. Gen. Danjuma criticized the military for allegedly aiding criminals and warned citizens not to rely solely on the Armed Forces for their protection.
Presiding Judge James Omotosho warned against any attempts to delay the trial, stressing the need for swift justice as Kanu remains in detention. He ordered the prosecution to conclude its case within six days unless special reasons arise. The trial was adjourned to dates between May 28 and June 19, 2025, for continuation.
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