The Federal High Court in Abuja has handed down a life sentence to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), after finding him guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges. The ruling, delivered on Thursday, marks one of the most consequential legal decisions in Nigeria’s recent political history, closing a chapter in a case that has drawn global attention and sparked intense debate across the country.
Justice Binta Nyako convicted Kanu on all seven counts brought against him, including terrorism financing, membership of a proscribed group, and incitement through broadcasts and directives issued to IPOB supporters. While some of the charges carried the death penalty, the court opted for life imprisonment, citing international concerns over capital punishment and the need to maintain Nigeria’s image within the global community.
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According to details provided in court, Kanu received multiple life sentences on counts 1, 4, 5, and 6, as well as additional terms of 20 and 5 years on two other counts, with all sentences to run concurrently. The prosecution team welcomed the judgment, describing it as a reaffirmation of national authority and rule of law. “No individual is bigger than Nigeria,” the government’s counsel said after the verdict.
Kanu’s legal team has announced plans to challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal, arguing that the conviction represents a miscarriage of justice and violates his constitutional rights. The decision has also drawn criticism from some Igbo leaders, who described the sentence as symbolic of broader marginalization in the region.
Meanwhile, security agencies are preparing for potential unrest in parts of the Southeast as reactions continue to unfold.
