Nnamdi Kanu Federal High Court in Abuja convicts IPOB leader on seven counts, orders protective custody and permanent forfeiture of movement’s broadcasting assets
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 all seven terrorism-related charges brought by the Nigerian government. The judgment, delivered on November 20, 2025, by Justice James Omotosho, marks one of the most consequential legal decisions in Nigeria’s recent security and political landscape.
In a ruling that spanned several hours, the court held that Mr. Kanu’s actions, including repeated broadcasts, directives to supporters, and the enforcement of sit-at-home orders across the country’s Southeast, amounted to acts of terrorism. The judge stated that these activities contributed to violence, the deaths of security personnel, and significant destruction of property in the region.
Although the prosecution sought the death penalty, Justice Omotosho opted for a life sentence, noting that the decision was made in the interest of judicial discretion and mercy. Mr. Kanu received life imprisonment on counts one, four, five, and six; 20 years on count three; and five years on count seven. All sentences are to run concurrently.
The court additionally ordered that Kanu be held in protective custody rather than a conventional correctional facility, citing security considerations. Under the ruling, he is prohibited from using digital communication devices, and any future access to such tools will require explicit approval from the Office of the National Security Adviser.
In a sweeping move aimed at curtailing the influence of IPOB’s media apparatus, the court also approved the permanent forfeiture of all transmitters, broadcasting equipment, and related assets used by IPOB and its affiliate, Radio Biafra, to the federal government. These tools were deemed central to the dissemination of messages the court described as inciting and dangerous.
Nnamdi Kanu, who founded IPOB to advocate for the creation of an independent Biafran state, has been at the center of a long-standing confrontation between the group and Nigerian authorities. The government has repeatedly accused IPOB of orchestrating unrest, while the group has denied directing violent actions.
The verdict represents a decisive turning point in the government’s efforts to curb separatist agitation and restore stability to the Southeast. It also signals heightened judicial backing for national security measures aimed at countering groups designated as threats to the state.
Reactions from political, regional, and international observers are expected in the coming days as the implications of the judgment continue to unfold.
0 Comments