Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Abuja after being convicted on seven terrorism-related charges.
Justice James Omotosho found Kanu guilty of issuing a “sit-at-home” order that paralysed the southeastern region every Monday, inciting violence against Nigerian security forces, and providing instructions for bomb-making. The judge ruled that in the absence of a valid defence—Kanu refused to open his case and was removed from the courtroom for disruptive behavior—his conviction was justified.
Under Nigeria’s Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act of 2013, several of the offences he was found guilty of carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment or the death penalty. During the sentencing hearing, the Federal Government pushed for the death penalty, citing the gravity of his violent directives and their impact.
Kanu, who has long advocated for the secession of southeastern Nigeria as Biafra, was accused of leading a proscribed organisation and advocating for its goals through “terrorist activity.” The court also referenced the widespread economic disruption caused by his “sit-at-home” orders, which led to the closure of businesses, banks, and schools.
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The trial has been deeply controversial. Kanu, who holds British citizenship, has challenged the court’s jurisdiction and argued that he was unfairly denied a fair hearing. Observers say the verdict could further inflame separatist tensions in the southeast.
Security in Abuja was tight ahead of the judgment, as supporters on both sides braced for a dramatic outcome. The sentence marks a pivotal moment for the IPOB movement—and for Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to reconcile national unity with long-standing regional grievances.