The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on all seven counts of terrorism brought against him by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Delivering judgment, Justice James Omotosho held that the prosecution presented credible and sufficient evidence to establish its case, noting that there was no counter-evidence before the court.
He described Kanu as a “false defender” of the South-East whose actions resulted in bloodshed, declaring him “an international terrorist” who must be treated accordingly.
Justice Omotosho stated that while individuals may hold the right to self-determination, Nigeria remains an indivisible state under the Constitution.
He ruled that Kanu pursued self-determination through unconstitutional means and employed terrorism as a tool, citing inciting broadcasts on Radio Biafra and threats against citizens and the Nigerian state.
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The court noted that Kanu failed to present any defence, leaving him with no choice but to rely on the prosecution’s evidence.
As a result, the judge said he had no option but to accept the prosecution’s submissions and convict the defendant on all seven counts.
Following the conviction, counsel for the Federal Government, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, urged the court to impose the death penalty, stressing that the offences for which Kanu was convicted carry mandatory capital punishment.
He argued that Kanu showed no remorse throughout the trial and maintained a militant and unruly attitude.
Awomolo said the conviction serves justice for security personnel and civilians who lost their lives due to IPOB-linked violence.
The prosecution further requested that Kanu be transferred to a correctional facility, asserting that his safety would be guaranteed there pending execution of the sentence.
The judgment was delivered in Kanu’s absence after he disrupted proceedings, insisting that the court could not continue because the charges had been repealed.
Justice Omotosho recounted Kanu’s disregard for his lawyers, the court, and security operatives, stating that despite repeated pleas for him to conduct himself properly or excuse himself, he refused.
Sentencing is expected to follow the conviction in line with the relevant statutory provisions.
The court stood the case to resume by 4 pm for the pronouncement of sentences.
A lawmaker, Hon. Obi Aguocha, representing Ikwu-ano Umuahia Federal Constituency, Imo state, at the House of Representatives, begged the court to be lenient and temper Justice with mercy in sentencing Kanu.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
