A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment after finding him guilty on all seven counts of terrorism.
Justice James Omotosho handed down the sentence on Thursday, imposing life terms for counts one, four, five, and six; 20 years for count three; and another five-year term for count seven, with all sentences to run concurrently.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho said he considered the death penalty but opted for mercy, noting that capital punishment is increasingly rejected worldwide and quoting religious principles. He declared: “Life is sacred to God.”
The judge also ordered that Kanu be held in protective custody in a facility appropriate for his behaviour, ruling out Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja. He further barred Kanu from access to digital devices, citing concerns that he may incite violence.
The court relied on evidence including video interviews and broadcasts. Prosecutors presented material in which Kanu allegedly issued violent threats and enforced “sit-at-home” orders in the southeast, encouraging attacks on security forces and infrastructure.
Justice Omotosho also ordered the forfeiture to the government of a radio transmitter that Kanu was accused of illegally importing