The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has rejected the life sentence handed down to its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, describing the judgment as unconstitutional and a deliberate attempt to suppress legitimate agitation in the South-East.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on Thursday by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, after being convicted on seven terrorism-related counts, including incitement through broadcasts, belonging to a proscribed organisation, and issuing directives that the court said contributed to violence in the region.
The prosecution had urged the court to impose the death penalty, but Justice Omotosho opted for life imprisonment, saying global trends were shifting away from capital punishment and insisting the court must apply “mercy even in judgment.”
In a strong reaction, IPOB dismissed the ruling, arguing that seeking self-determination cannot be equated with terrorism. The group maintained that Kanu’s trial violated constitutional provisions and international norms. It also insisted that the charges were defective, claiming the laws used to prosecute him were no longer in force.
Kanu, who represented himself in court, had refused to call witnesses, insisting the charges lacked legal backing. He argued that his arrest and rendition from Kenya were unlawful and that he was being tried on politically motivated allegations.
The judgment has generated intense debate across the country, especially within the South-East, where many leaders have repeatedly called for a political solution to Kanu’s case. Some lawmakers and community groups warned that the life sentence may worsen tensions in the region if the Federal Government fails to engage in dialogue.
International human rights groups and foreign observers have also shown renewed interest in the case, questioning due-process concerns and demanding clarity on the boundary between political agitation and terrorism under Nigerian law.
Kanu’s legal team is expected to file an appeal in the coming days, setting the stage for what may become one of the most consequential legal battles in Nigeria’s recent history.