ABUJA, The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment after finding him guilty on seven terrorism-related charges, concluding one of Nigeria’s most polarising trials in years.
Delivering the judgment, Justice James Omotosho ruled that the Federal Government had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, citing evidence of incitement, leadership of a proscribed group, and issuing unlawful directives that allegedly sparked violence and widespread disruption across the South-East.
Prosecutors had urged the court to impose the death penalty, arguing that several of the charges carry capital punishment under the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013. But Justice Omotosho declined, saying a life sentence was proportionate to the gravity of the offences.
“The prosecution has established each charge beyond reasonable doubt. The defendant is hereby sentenced to life imprisonment,” the judge said.
The court also ordered the forfeiture of broadcasting equipment allegedly used to disseminate inflammatory messages and directed that Kanu be held in a high-security correctional facility.
The proceedings were marked by tension. Kanu, who dismissed his legal team mid-trial and opted to represent himself, was temporarily removed from the courtroom for what the judge described as “unruly conduct.” Despite repeated opportunities to present a defence, he refused to do so.
Justice Omotosho noted that Kanu’s persistent “sit-at-home” orders in the South-East amounted to unconstitutional restrictions that endangered lives, disrupted economic activity, and undermined public safety.
Kanu’s legal troubles date back to 2015, with multiple arrests, bail controversies, and his 2017 flight from the country. His rearrest in 2021, which sparked international debate, reignited the long-running case. IPOB itself was declared a terrorist organisation in 2017 amid rising agitation for the revival of the defunct Republic of Biafra.
Thursday’s ruling is expected to trigger significant reactions, particularly in the South-East where Kanu enjoys a loyal following. While his supporters maintain the charges are politically driven, the government insists his activities posed a clear threat to national security.
Kanu retains the right to appeal the decision, and his associates have already signalled plans to challenge both the conviction and the life sentence.
Security agencies nationwide have been placed on alert in anticipation of protests or unrest following the judgment.
Kanu’s sentencing marks one of the most consequential rulings on separatist agitation in Nigeria’s recent history, with analysts predicting far-reaching implications for debates on self-determination, national cohesion, and the limits of political expression.
