Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, okayed the Federal Government’s witnesses to testify against the leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, behind camera.
The judge’s decision was sequel to a request by the lead lawyer to the Federal Government, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN).
Following Awomolo’s request, Justice Omotosho granted permission for the witnesses to testify behind a screen in the terrorism case against Kanu.
Kanu is facing a seven-count terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.
During the court session, Justice Omotosho ruled on an ex-parte application filed by Awomolo.
The Federal Government’s lawyer had argued that the identities of the witnesses needed to be protected for security reasons, given the sensitive nature of the terrorism charges.
Awomolo requested that the names of the witnesses be shielded from public disclosure to ensure their safety.
Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), did not oppose the application. As a result, Justice Omotosho granted the request.
However, Agabi sought reciprocal cooperation from the Federal Government when a bail application for Kanu is argued.
Following the agreement between parties in the suit, the Federal Government’s proceeded to call its first witness, identified as PWAAA.
The witness later commenced his testimony while the prosecution formally opened its case against Kanu.
