A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has refused to grant an application seeking to shield from public view the prosecution witnesses who are billed to testify against pro-biafra leader, Nnamdi Kanu. Prosecution Counsel, David Kaswe who filed the application argued that the witnesses are already expressing fear of possible attack if they do not wear protective shield.
Defence counsel, Chuks Muoma however opposed the application on the grounds that the accused persons will not get a fair trial if court allows the people who are to testify against them wear mask. Apart from allowing witness to wear mask, the prosecution is also asking the court to allow only accredited journalists, family members and lawyers of the accused persons have access to the court room during the trial.
The Defence Counsel says it is equal to secret trial and that the offence the accused persons are standing trial for does not warrant secret trial. Both counsel cited relevant sections of the law to support their argument on whether prosecution witnesses should wear mask or not.
