Court Hands Nnamdi Kanu Life Sentence on Terrorism Charges
A Federal High Court in Nigeria has sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life in prison after finding him guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment, ruling that Kanu’s broadcasts on Radio Biafra constituted acts of terrorism. The court held that several statements he made in those broadcasts were incendiary and capable of inciting violence.
The judge also determined that the “sit-at-home” directives issued by Kanu to residents in the South-East amounted to acts of terror. According to the verdict, Kanu had no lawful authority to impose restrictions on citizens’ movements, and the orders contributed to widespread disruption across the region.
Proceedings were marked by tension after Kanu refused to participate in the trial, repeatedly insisting that the court lacked jurisdiction over his case. His refusal ultimately led to his removal from the courtroom, and the judgment was delivered in his absence.
Kanu’s sentencing comes roughly four years after his arrest in Kenya and subsequent extradition to Nigeria, a move that has remained a subject of public and political debate.