DSS Declares IPOB’s ESN Illegal, Distinct from Legally Backed Amotekun

The Department of State Services (DSS) has officially declared the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as an illegal organization. This declaration was made during the ongoing trial of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

A DSS operative, testifying under the pseudonym “BBB” for security reasons, stated that the ESN lacks any legal foundation, distinguishing it from the South-West’s Amotekun Corps, which is established by law. “While Amotekun was established following laws passed by the respective Houses of Assembly in the affected states, the ESN is not a registered organization under any law,” the witness clarified.

Amotekun, officially known as the Western Nigeria Security Network, was launched in January 2020 by the six South-West states to address regional security challenges. Each participating state enacted legislation to provide a legal framework for the outfit’s operations.

In contrast, the ESN was established by IPOB in December 2020 without any legislative backing, leading to its classification as an illegal entity by Nigerian authorities. The DSS emphasized that any form of community policing must operate under the guidance and approval of established security agencies to prevent abuse.

Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing a seven-count charge, including allegations of terrorism and treasonable felony. The trial continues as the court examines evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense.