The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to life imprisonment.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment after finding Kanu guilty on all seven terrorism-related charges brought against him by the Federal Government. The court ruled that his actions — including secessionist broadcasts, threats of violence, and directives for sit-at-home orders — amounted to acts of terrorism under Nigerian law.
Here’s how the court ruled on each count:
Counts 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6: Life imprisonment
Count 3 (membership of a proscribed terrorist group): 20 years without an option of fine
Count 7 (importation of an unregistered radio transmitter): 5 years without an option of fine
All sentences will run concurrently.
Justice Omotosho noted that Kanu’s statements and broadcasts — including threats that “the Army of Nigeria will die” and that “everything called Nigeria will perish” — were intended to promote the breakaway of several regions to form a Biafra nation. The court described the sit-at-home orders he issued as unconstitutional, citing their impact on businesses, farming, worship, and daily life.
Although the offences carry a possible death penalty, the judge said he opted for life imprisonment “to temper justice with mercy,” referencing Christian teachings.
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The court also ruled that:
Kanu will not be kept at Kuje Prison due to safety concerns and will instead be held in a secure protective facility.
He is prohibited from having access to any digital device.
The imported radio transmitter used for Radio Biafra broadcasts is to be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The ruling marks a major development in a case that has shaped national debate for years.
