A court in Nigeria has convicted Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on charges of terrorism, nearly a decade after his initial arrest in October 2015. Kanu, who holds dual citizenship in Britain and Nigeria, faced multiple charges related to his alleged role in inciting violence against civilians and security personnel in southeastern Nigeria.
The ruling, delivered on November 20, 2023, has heightened tensions in the region, prompting increased security measures in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, due to fears of potential protests by Kanu’s supporters. Judge James Omotosho asserted that Kanu had exploited his position to orchestrate violent acts, referring to them as “terrorist acts.”
“The intention was quite clear as he believed in violence. These threats of violence were nothing but terrorist acts,” Judge Omotosho stated during the proceedings. Prosecutors have called for the death penalty for Kanu, arguing that his actions warranted the maximum sentence.
Kanu’s legal troubles are extensive. Initially facing treason charges, he was released on bail after 18 months but disappeared until his extradition from Kenya in 2021. He has consistently denied the charges against him and has rejected his legal representation. His conduct in court drew attention when he was removed for reportedly being “unruly.”
“Which law states that you can charge me on an unwritten law? Show me,” Kanu challenged the court, expressing his disdain for the legal process. He further criticized Judge Omotosho, stating, “Any judgment declared in this court is complete rubbish.”
The case has raised significant political concerns. Omoyele Sowore, a prominent Nigerian politician and human rights activist, claimed that the verdict was predetermined by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “Today, they executed that script word for word,” Sowore remarked. He asserted that the trial had devolved into a moral test for Nigeria, rather than a genuine pursuit of justice.
As tensions mount, protests advocating for Kanu’s release have erupted in Abuja, leading to police using tear gas to disperse crowds. The court’s decision is expected to further polarize opinions within Nigeria, particularly among those who support the Biafran independence movement.
In light of these developments, Kanu’s sentencing is anticipated to take place shortly, continuing to fuel the ongoing discourse surrounding national unity and separatism in Nigeria. The outcome of this case may have lasting implications for the IPOB and its quest for self-determination, as well as for the broader political climate in the country.
