Biafra: Security agents deploy guns, tanks, dogs for Kanu”s trial

Justice Binta Nyako has warned security agencies against sensationalising the trial of leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu and three others facing treasonable charges. Kanu was arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of conspiracy, treasonable felony and unlawful possession of firearms alongside Chidiebere Onwudiwe, Benjamin Madubugwu and […]

Justice Binta Nyako has warned security agencies against sensationalising the trial of leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu and three others facing treasonable charges.

Kanu was arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of conspiracy, treasonable felony and unlawful possession of firearms alongside Chidiebere Onwudiwe, Benjamin Madubugwu and David Nwawuisi.

Earlier journalists and family members of Kanu were barred from gaining access into the court premises as the secret trial began.

Defence counsels also complained of excessive profiling by security agencies.                                                                                        A combined team of fully armed DSS, Mobile Police, and Prisons personnel, tanks and trained dogs were deployed during the hearing.

Justice Nyako warned the security agencies against the use of excessive force in handling of the defendants whenever they receive visitors or appear in court.

"There is nothing special about these four persons. I am sending a message to the Attorney General of the Federation through the state counsel," the judge said.

Meanwhile, defence counsels Ifeanyi Ejiofor, and Maxwel Opara have filed a preliminary objection challenging the charges filed against the four persons.

The judge will hear and rule on the applications on Thursday.