Kanu Handed Life Sentence on Terrorism Charges

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 several counts of terrorism.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the ruling on Thursday, bringing an end to the long-running trial prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS). 

Kanu was convicted on counts one, two, four, five and six of the seven-count charge, each attracting a life term.

On count three, which centred on his membership of a proscribed terrorist organisation, the court imposed a 20-year prison sentence without an option of fine. 

Count seven, relating to the unlawful importation of a radio transmitter allegedly used to advance the operations of Radio Biafra, earned him a further five-year sentence.

The judge remarked that Kanu had been “unruly” throughout the proceedings and that the law permits the imposition of the death penalty for the offences. 

He said he opted for a life sentence, describing the decision as an act of personal mercy.

Justice Omotosho also directed that Kanu be held in protective custody at a secure facility outside Kuje Prison in Abuja. 

The radio transmitter is to be forfeited to the Federal Government.

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