Family Alleges DSS Blocking Media from Seeing Nnamdi Kanu by Delaying His Court Entry

Fresh controversy has trailed the ongoing trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as a family member accuses the Department of State Services (DSS) of deliberately delaying his arrival in court to prevent the media and observers from photographing him.

Favour Michael Kanu, wife of Prince Emmanuel Kanu, made the allegation on Tuesday, claiming that the DSS has introduced a new tactic to keep Kanu out of public view during his appearances at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

According to her, “Their new strategy is to delay Nnamdi Kanu’s entry into the courtroom until the judge arrives, ensuring that no one can take photos or record him before the proceedings begin.”

The family’s statement adds to ongoing concerns raised by Kanu’s relatives and lawyers over what they describe as a lack of transparency in court proceedings, restricted access to legal representation, and continuous rights violations while in custody.

Kanu, who has been detained since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021, recently opted to represent himself in court after dismissing his legal team. He maintains that the court lacks jurisdiction to prosecute him under both domestic and international law.