Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Abuja for acts of terrorism.
Justice James Omotosho, delivering the judgment on Wednesday, held that Kanu’s repeated broadcasts, which included threats of violence, enforcement of unlawful sit-at-home orders, and incitement leading to killings and destruction in the South-East — constituted acts of terrorism under Nigerian law.
The court emphasized that Kanu had no legal authority to restrict the movement of citizens, noting that only the President of Nigeria, under Section 305 of the Constitution, can impose such restrictions through emergency powers.
Justice Omotosho ruled that the prosecution successfully established all the elements of terrorism, with evidence showing Kanu’s intentions and conduct amounted to preparatory acts of terrorism. The judge further noted that Kanu “failed and deliberately refused to give any exculpatory evidence” in his defense.
“From the incontrovertible evidence, it is clear that the defendant carried out preparatory acts of terrorism. He had the duty to explain himself but failed to do so,” Justice Omotosho said.
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Although the offences carry the death penalty under the Terrorism Prevention Act, the court opted for life imprisonment, citing considerations that warranted a severe but lesser sentence.
The ruling marks a pivotal moment in Kanu’s long-running legal battle with the Federal Government, with his legal team expected to respond and explore possible appeals.
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