The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, will appeal against the life imprisonment and other jail terms handed down by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, his former lawyer and consultant, Aloy Ejimakor, has said.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on counts one, two, four, five, and six, a 20-year jail term on count three with no option of fine, and five years on count seven with no option of fine.
The judgment was delivered in his absence after he refused to participate in the proceedings, insisting that the court had no authority over him regarding the terrorism charges.
His refusal led the presiding judge to order security personnel to remove him from the courtroom for unruly behaviour.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho cited several broadcasts by Kanu on Radio Biafra as constituting acts of terrorism, noting that his rhetoric and directives were anchored on violence.
The judge further stated that Kanu’s enforcement of sit-at-home orders in South-Eastern states amounted to terrorism, as it infringed on citizens’ freedom of movement and exceeded any constitutional authority.
The court also highlighted evidence that Kanu, through his broadcasts, engaged in preparatory acts of terrorism, including incitement to kill police and military personnel. Based on the evidence, the court found him guilty on all seven counts, despite his plea of not guilty.
Speaking to reporters after the sentencing, Ejimakor said Kanu would appeal the judgment.
“We are heading to appeal,” he said.
