In a significant legal development that has captured national attention, the Federal High Court in Abuja has delivered multiple convictions against Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The rulings came during an ongoing judgment session that saw the court address several terrorism-related charges against the controversial separatist leader.
Court Delivers Guilty Verdicts on Terrorism Charges
Presiding Justice James Omotosho found Kanu guilty on two initial counts related to engaging in acts of terrorism. The court determined that his repeated declarations of sit-at-home orders, combined with threats of violence and killings broadcast through various media channels, constituted terrorism under Nigerian law.
As the judgment proceedings continued, the court expanded its rulings to include three additional counts. Justice Omotosho convicted Kanu of belonging to a proscribed organization and inciting his followers to violence. The prosecution presented compelling evidence demonstrating that Kanu remained an active member of IPOB and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), despite both organizations being officially banned by the Nigerian government.
Evidence of Incitement to Violence
The court further established that broadcasts attributed to Kanu directly encouraged attacks that resulted in the deaths of security personnel and the destruction of public facilities, including multiple police stations. These findings formed the basis for the convictions on charges related to incitement to violence.
Justice Omotosho emphasized that the evidence clearly showed a pattern of behavior that met the legal definition of terrorism under Nigerian statutes. The court's rulings addressed the prosecution's arguments that Kanu's actions and statements had contributed to widespread unrest and violence in southeastern Nigeria.
Dramatic Courtroom Proceedings
The judgment session was marked by dramatic moments when Kanu became unruly during proceedings. Justice Omotosho had earlier dismissed three fresh motions filed by Kanu's legal team, stating that the applications lacked merit since they were submitted after the case had already been adjourned for judgment.
When Justice Omotosho began delivering his ruling, Kanu objected vehemently, insisting that the court could not proceed because he had not filed his final written address. Raising his voice in protest, Kanu accused the judge of bias and declared that the court "did not know the law."
Following this outburst, Justice Omotosho directed security personnel to remove Kanu from the courtroom. The judge continued reading the final judgment in the defendant's absence, underscoring the court's determination to proceed with the matter despite the disruption.
The judgment is continuing as of November 20, 2025, with decisions on the remaining counts expected to be delivered. This case represents one of the most significant terrorism-related prosecutions in recent Nigerian legal history and has far-reaching implications for national security and separatist movements in the country.
