KANU TRIAL: Tension As Hoodlums Manhandle Sowore At Court Premises

There was tensed atmosphere at the premises of Federal High Court Abuja, where Nnamdi Kanu’s trial is taking place today as some hoodlums swooped in and attacked Human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore.

Sowore who came to witness Kanu’s trial, was denied access into the court, and while he was speaking with security operatives, the hoodlums, about 20 boys, descended on him, slapping and punching him, while the security officers stood and looked at them, only to intervene when people standing by started shouting over the development, making the boys leave the scene.

Prior to the ugly incident, Sowore said, “A courtroom is not complete except people are there to witness proceedings. I want to sit right in front of the judge and witness it all.

“They have assured us that Kanu will get justice. He is my friend and I should be here. But the security agencies are still not allowing me in.”

The attitude of the security officers enraged people at the scene who demanded that the hoodlums be arrested. Some speculated that the hoodlums had the backing of forces from above.

Kanu’s trial commenced today, under tight security as operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army and Nigerian Police Force were seen guarding every entrance to the court and the streets leading to the court building.

Kanu was brought to court around 8 am. Journalists, judiciary staff and others were barred from gaining access to the court building.