Tension flared outside the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday morning as operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly attacked a TVCNews cameraman, stopping him from capturing footage of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Eye witnesses say the incident happened as Kanu was being moved into the court premises under heavy security for his ongoing trial.
The TVCNews crew, stationed to cover the high-profile case, had their camera rolling when DSS personnel swooped in. Sources claim one operative shoved the cameraman, identified simply as Tunde, while another grabbed his equipment, shouting, “No video here!” The scuffle left Tunde bruised, though he managed to hold onto his camera. Colleagues at the scene say the DSS team warned journalists to steer clear or face worse.
Watch Video:
Kanu, facing charges of terrorism and treasonable felony, has been in DSS custody since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021. His court appearances always draw tight security and media buzz, but Friday’s clash has sparked fresh outrage. “This is pure intimidation,” fumed a reporter at the scene. “We’re just doing our job, but they treat us like criminals.”
TVCNews management has condemned the attack, calling it an assault on press freedom. “Our cameraman was within his rights. This brutality won’t silence us,” a station official declared. They’ve vowed to lodge a formal complaint with the DSS and seek justice for Tunde.
The incident isn’t the first of its kind. Past trials of Kanu have seen security operatives clash with journalists, with some barred from courtrooms or harassed for filming. In 2021, DSS agents blocked roads and roughed up reporters during one heated session, drawing flak from media groups and rights activists.
As Kanu’s case drags on, the heavy-handed tactics of security forces keep stirring debate. Supporters of the IPOB leader, who trickled into Abuja despite the clampdown, chanted solidarity songs outside the court, only to be dispersed by police tear gas. “They can’t hide the truth forever,” one protester shouted before fleeing the fumes.
DSS spokespersons were unreachable for comment as of press time, but insiders hint the operatives were acting on orders to keep Kanu’s movements under wraps. The trial itself adjourned briefly after the chaos, with Kanu’s legal team yet to speak on the latest drama.
Leave a Reply