The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, admitted the death certificate and medical report of former presidential aide Ahmed Gulak as evidence in the ongoing terrorism trial of pro-Biafra separatist leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Gulak was assassinated in Imo State in 2021 by gunmen allegedly linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The Federal Government had previously accused Kanu of inciting the attacks that led to the former aide’s death, among other violent incidents.
At the resumed hearing before Justice James Omotosho, the prosecution led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) presented the documents through a witness identified as PWBBB. The documents—including a police report from Owerri—were admitted as exhibits without objection from Kanu’s defence team, which is led by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).
The Federal Government is prosecuting Kanu on a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony. So far, prosecutors have tendered multiple pieces of evidence including video and audio recordings purportedly showing Kanu issuing orders for violent attacks on security agents and civilians.
But Kanu’s legal team pushed back, questioning the credibility of the prosecution’s evidence. Agabi specifically challenged the integrity of the video statement said to have been recorded while Kanu was in DSS custody.
“Why is it that only Kanu and his team appear in the video? Where are the DSS operatives?” Agabi asked.
The witness, however, said it was standard procedure, though he could not recall if he wore a mask during the recorded session.
Further grilling exposed gaps in the investigation. The witness admitted he was not part of charge drafting, could not confirm dates of charge amendments, and had never facilitated any face-to-face confrontation between Kanu and his accusers. Instead, he said he acted on directives from the Attorney-General’s office.
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Agabi also raised alarms over Kanu’s prolonged detention, alleged solitary confinement, and what he termed “cruel and inhuman treatment.” The investigator deflected, claiming ignorance of Kanu’s living conditions and mental state.
A tense exchange ensued as Agabi revealed the defence had requested crucial police records which were yet to be provided. While the prosecution resisted an adjournment, citing the court’s earlier order for accelerated hearing, Justice Omotosho opted for a short delay.
“This matter has both international and domestic implications,” the judge said. “The court must allow proper ventilation of the issues to ensure justice is served.”
Justice Omotosho also addressed a social media post by one of Kanu’s lawyers, Aloy Ejimakor, alleging denial of access to Kanu. While Agabi denied such obstruction, the judge issued a stern warning about misinformation and urged legal practitioners to exercise professionalism.
The trial continues on May 21, with the court stressing the need for diligence from all parties.