- Zainab Akingbade // Premier World News
A Nigerian federal court in Abuja on Thursday sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment after finding him guilty on seven terrorism-related charges.
Presiding Judge James Omotosho of the Federal High Court stated that while prosecutors had sought the death penalty, he opted for life imprisonment in line with international norms and the principle of mercy.
Kanu was convicted of inciting attacks on security personnel, enforcing illegal “sit-at-home” orders across the south-east and facilitating extremist activities through his radio broadcasts.
Following the verdict, officials strengthened security in Abuja amid fears of unrest in the region, where Kanu’s movement has strong support.
Analysts warn the conviction may intensify tensions in the southeast, Premier World News reports.
The judge ruled the sentence should run concurrently with additional penalties, including forfeiture of equipment used in the offences.
Kanu has 90 days to file an appeal, Premier World News further reports.
In response, the IPOB rejected the sentence, calling the ruling unconstitutional and claiming the trial was politically motivated.
