By Our Reporter
In a high-stakes ruling on November 20, 2025, a Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on the first count of terrorism brought by the Federal Government. The judge, Justice James Omotosho, declared that the evidence presented — notably Kanu’s broadcasts — showed he deliberately incited violence and threatened the lives of Nigerians in furtherance of his separatist agenda. He was sentenced to life imprisonment.
The prosecution had charged Kanu on multiple counts, including issuing illegal “sit-at-home” orders, leading a proscribed terrorist organization, and making threats to kill security operatives, as well as encouraging destruction of government property. But Judge Omotosho focused on what he described as “uncontroverted evidence” in convicting Kanu on Count 1: broadcasting messages that threatened violence.
According to the court, Kanu’s radio and video broadcasts called for killings and bloodshed, a pattern the judge said demonstrated not just rhetoric but “preparatory acts of terrorism.” The judge noted that Kanu consistently refused to explain or contextualise these broadcasts, despite being given ample opportunity.
Kanu’s defence strategy has been marked by legal challenges. In a recent move, he appealed to the Court of Appeal to halt the High Court’s proceedings, claiming that the terrorism laws invoked against him are no longer valid. He argued that the legislation forming the basis of his charges had been repealed.
The presiding judge rejected his arguments, noting that Kanu had waived his right to present a defence after failing to do so within a court-allotted six-day window. Omotosho also emphasised that the court had repeatedly urged Kanu to mount a defence, but he declined.
As of the current ruling, Kanu has been convicted only on the first count; the judge’s decision on the other charges remains pending. Observers say today’s verdict will likely reverberate across Nigeria, raising tensions in the southeast and adding a new chapter to the long-standing secessionist struggle.
Below are the counts:
Count 1 – Broadcast to incite and threaten violence.
Count 2 – Illegal Sit-at-home order with threat to violence
Count 3 – leader of a proscribed terrorist organisation
Counts 4 & 5 – threats to kill security operatives, make improvised bombs,and incitement to the public to destroy all Government properties during the EndSARS protest (“There are guns in Edo State, the Government cannot sustain the protest for 3 weeks, take their guns and kill any Army around you” – statements he made on a live call as shown by the Prosecution)