A Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted into evidence a report from the Department of State Services (DSS) that allegedly connects Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to the killing of 186 police officers and the destruction of 164 police stations during the #EndSARS protests.
Justice James Omotoso admitted the report during the resumed terrorism trial of Kanu on Thursday. The report was presented by the prosecution through the fifth prosecution witness, identified only as Mr. EEE for security reasons. EEE, a DSS operative, testified that he was part of a team deployed across the South-East and other regions to collect information on the violence that erupted during the protests.
“I know the defendant through the media. I have never met him face-to-face,” EEE stated. He explained that his task was to gather records of property destruction and security personnel deaths allegedly incited by Kanu’s statements.
The court admitted exhibits including a damage assessment report, death certificates of some officers, and a certificate of compliance. Despite objections from the defense, the court reserved arguments on admissibility.
According to EEE, the violence led to the deaths of 186 police officers, 37 military personnel, and 10 DSS operatives. He added that 164 police stations and nine Independent National Electoral Commission facilities were destroyed in 17 states, including Lagos, Abia, and Rivers, attributing this to Kanu’s inciting messages.
During cross-examination, defense counsel Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN) challenged the report’s credibility and the direct link to Kanu. EEE admitted he did not investigate Kanu personally but was tasked with investigating destruction related to Kanu’s statements.
Ikpeazu also questioned why other activists like Aisha Yesufu, a notable #EndSARS figure, were not investigated. EEE responded that his mandate was limited to damage assessment from the protests, which he said were “hijacked by subversive elements.”
The witness conceded that the report did not contain a specific page directly linking deaths to IPOB members and acknowledged deficiencies such as unsigned documents and undated photographs.
Prosecution counsel Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) urged the court to grant their prayers after presenting evidence. Defense counsel Kanu Agabi (SAN) filed a no-case submission, which the court adjourned to July 18 for hearing.
