Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has delivered a significant ruling in the high-profile case involving Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in detention since 2021.
The judgement was handed down in Kanu’s absence after the court ordered security officials to remove him for disruptive behavior during proceedings.
Kanu, who faced seven terrorism-related charges ranging from alleged incitement to running an unlawful organization and acts perceived to threaten national security, had challenged the court’s authority to try him. He argued that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction over his case and claimed that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act under which he was charged had been repealed.
The IPOB leader also contested the validity of the plea of not guilty entered on his behalf, asserting that it was obtained through deception and contrary to Supreme Court directives. He urged the court to dismiss all charges, describing them as baseless, and to order his immediate release.
Delivering Thursday’s ruling, Justice Omotosho dismissed Kanu’s jurisdictional objections, affirming that the Federal High Court has the authority to hear the case. The judge also ruled against Kanu on the matter of extradition, citing prior Supreme Court decisions that had settled the issue.
On the question of fairness, the court held that Kanu received ample opportunity to present his case. Justice Omotosho noted that despite repeated encouragement to enter a defense, Kanu chose to remain silent, effectively leaving the prosecution’s case unchallenged—a decision the judge described as a “risky gamble.”
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The court ultimately found Nnamdi Kanu guilty on Count 1 of the charges brought against him. Justice Omotosho stated: “The court relies on the uncontroverted evidence presented by the prosecution. Count 1 has been proven beyond reasonable doubt. Accordingly, the defendant is hereby convicted in respect of this count.”
Further details of the judgement are still being read, and updates will follow as the proceedings continue.
