Abuja – The Nation gathered yesterday that detectives were probing allegations that Kanu was on the payroll of some state governors in the Southeast and senators from the geo-political zone for the purpose of protecting them from attack by IPOB.
Also being investigated for the same allegations are ex-governors, businessmen, politicians and groups.
It was learnt that investigators were strong on clues of local funding of IPOB.
It was gathered that most of the funds were secretly channeled to IPOB.
The Federal Government on Thursday said preliminary investigation has led to the uncovering of Kanu’s collaborators.
A top source, who spoke in confidence, said: “Detectives have stumbled on clues that certain individuals and groups have been paying protection fees to IPOB against attacks.
“Some of these individuals had been overwhelmed with fears and they had to dole out funds to IPOB to show their loyalty.
“Others who believe in IPOB’s cause have been surreptitiously providing funds to this illegal body to make the secessionist bid successful.
“So far, there is appreciable evidence of local funding which investigators are tracing. Some bigwigs have been paying protection fees.”
Responding to a question, the source added that detectives are looking at “clues on governors, ex-governors, businessmen, politicians and groups that have been allegedly paying cash secretly to IPOB against attacks.
“We have not been able to verify any case but some governors had even offered to meet and negotiate with IPOB leaders.
“A few others have been defending Kanu as if they have other interests than the unity and sovereignty of Nigeria.
“Nigerians will soon be briefed on the findings of investigators.”
There were also indications that the British High Commission in Nigeria may offer consular service to Kanu not only because he is a British citizen but because the penalty of the charges against him is death penalty.
A source said: “The British High Commission is interested in the arrest of Kanu not only because he is a citizen of Britain but due to the nature of the case with death penalty.
“Any case attracting the death penalty for its citizens, Britain does not joke with it. So far, the High Commission is ready to offer consular service.
“As I am talking to you, the High Commission is yet to have access to Kanu.