ESN Is Illegal, Not Backed by Law Like Amotekun – DSS Tells Court

Last updated: May 22, 2025. 3:52 pm

By Praise Ben

3 Min Read

ESN Is Illegal - DSS

ESN Is Illegal, Not Backed by Law Like Amotekun – DSS Tells Court .
Court admitted EndSARS report, flash drive, and video exhibits into evidence.
Judge warned against delay, adjourned Nnamdi Kanu’s trial to six future dates.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has told the Federal High Court in Abuja that the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is not a legally recognised organisation.

This disclosure came during the ongoing trial of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, when a DSS operative identified only as BBB testified under re-examination by the prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN).

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that responding to questions about the status of ESN, the operative said, “My lord, while the ESN is not a registered organisation recognised by law, Amotekun was established following the law passed by the respective Houses of Assembly in the affected states.”

He drew a clear distinction between ESN and Amotekun, the South-West security outfit backed by law to tackle regional threats like kidnapping and herder-farmer clashes.

During cross-examination led by defence counsel Paul Erokoro (SAN), the court admitted several exhibits into evidence, including a certified true copy of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on EndSARS, a flash drive, and a certificate of compliance, marked as exhibits PWUO, PWP, and PWI respectively.

A video was played in court showing statements from DSS Director-General Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. T.Y. Danjuma.

In the footage, DSS chief Ajayi urged closer collaboration between citizens and security agencies. Governor Uzodinma dismissed claims of ESN involvement in the Orlu killings, blaming opposition politicians instead. Danjuma strongly criticised the military, alleging they shield criminals, and warned Nigerians not to rely solely on the armed forces for protection.

Presiding judge Justice James Omotosho cautioned both parties against delaying tactics and insisted on an accelerated trial, stressing the need to avoid unnecessarily extending Nnamdi Kanu’s detention.

ESN Is Illegal - DSS — ESN Is Illegal – DSS

The court has directed the prosecution to close its case within six days, unless compelling reasons arise. The trial was adjourned to continue on May 28, 29, and June 6, 16, 18, and 19.