A Federal High Court in Abuja convicts Nnamdi Kanu on all seven terrorism-related charges. Justice James Omotosho rules that Kanu belongs to a proscribed terror group and regularly incites his followers to commit acts of violence across Nigeria.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the judge finds him guilty on counts three, four, and five after the Department of State Services (DSS) presents what the court describes as credible and overwhelming evidence. The court rules that Kanu is a member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Justice Omotosho says the prosecution proves that Kanu uses repeated online broadcasts to incite violence, leading to the killing of security personnel and destruction of several government facilities, including police stations.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the judge emphasizes that Nigeria remains an indivisible and indissoluble nation under the constitution.
The court further classifies Kanu as an “International Terrorist,” citing his alleged intention to bomb the British High Commission and assassinate former British High Commissioner, Catriona Laing. The judge adds that Kanu extends his threats to the United States, where he allegedly orders that the American Embassy be attacked in one of his broadcasts. He is then convicted on Count Six.
Justice Omotosho rules that while the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights allows for self-determination, Nigeria’s constitution clearly states that such demands must go through the National Assembly and cannot be pursued through violence or a referendum. According to the judge, Kanu uses terrorism as a weapon to push for secession and also threatens the safety of his own people.
During the ruling, the court notes that Kanu repeatedly displays arrogance and insists that no court can convict him. Justice Omotosho says the defendant shows no remorse, violates the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), and causes great harm to communities that share his Christian faith.
Families of the 75 security officers killed during violent attacks linked to IPOB activities receive the judgment with relief. The court states that terrorism remains a major threat to humanity and that the law must protect citizens and the nation.
Following the conviction, the Federal Government demands the death sentence for Nnamdi Kanu as the appropriate punishment for the terrorism charges.
Lead counsel Wole Awomolo (SAN) appeals to the court to place Kanu in the safest detention facility, warning that his client has both “enemies and friends.” He argues that Kuje Correctional Centre is unsafe because of previous jailbreaks.
Justice Omotosho concludes that Kanu’s unruly attitude and lack of cooperation throughout the trial further strengthen the court’s decision.
