A Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday convicted Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, on three out of seven terrorism charges brought against him by the Federal Government. The ruling was delivered by Justice James Omotosho after reviewing the evidence presented by the prosecution.
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The judge reached the decision after examining several video recordings where Kanu made broadcasts calling for violence across Nigeria. The court ruled that the messages encouraged attacks, killings, and destruction of property, and were tied to sit-at-home orders enforced in the South-East. According to the judgment, these broadcasts pushed residents to stay indoors out of fear, leaving markets, streets, and even farmlands empty.
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The court also held Kanu responsible for inciting violent acts during the #EndSARS protests in Lagos, which led to the deaths of security officers and the destruction of public buildings. The judge stated that the evidence linked his statements to the unrest.
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Claims by Kanu that he was denied a fair hearing were rejected by the court. The judge stated that the trial followed due process and that the charges were proven by the prosecution. The court further explained that Kanu used his position as the head of Radio and Television Biafra to make repeated threats against the country and its security agencies.
The judge noted that the offences for which Kanu was convicted carry a maximum penalty of death under Nigerian law. The court stated that his broadcasts went beyond political agitation and fell under acts described as terrorism because they spread fear, promoted violence, and attempted to shut down normal life in parts of the country.
The case will continue with sentencing procedures, and more details are expected soon.
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