JUST IN: Court Sentences Nnamdi Kanu To Life Imprisonment

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday sentenced the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of terrorism-related offences. The judgment, delivered by Justice James Omotosho, followed years of legal battles between the separatist leader and the Nigerian government over his activities and the operations of his banned organisation.

Justice Omotosho held that Kanu’s repeated “sit-at-home” directives in the Southeast amounted to terrorist acts that caused widespread fear, economic paralysis, and loss of lives. The court said the IPOB leader had no constitutional power to restrict the movement of citizens and noted that only the President of Nigeria can issue such orders under Section 305 of the Constitution. In reaching the verdict, the judge stated that prosecution evidence was overwhelming, especially since Kanu declined to call witnesses in his defence, forcing the court to rely solely on the case presented by the state.

Tension briefly heightened in the courtroom after Kanu was removed for what the judge described as unruly behaviour shortly before the proceedings resumed. After a short recess, the court reconvened and pronounced the life sentence under Section 16 of the Terrorism Prevention Act, a provision that prescribes death or life imprisonment for the offences for which Kanu was convicted.

The ruling has already triggered strong reactions across the country. Members of IPOB faulted the judgment, describing the entire process as unjust and politically motivated. They insisted that Kanu was tried under laws they argue have become obsolete and inconsistent with modern judicial standards. Several activists also renewed criticism of the government, alleging that the trial was influenced by political considerations. However, the Federal Government welcomed the verdict, saying it reaffirms its commitment to national security and the rule of law.

Kanu’s conviction marks a dramatic turning point in the long-running struggle between the Nigerian state and the Biafran separatist movement. His sentencing is expected to reignite debates about governance, security, and the ongoing agitation in the Southeast, as the region braces for possible political and social reactions following the historic decision.
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