Court Convicts Nnamdi Kanu of Terrorism Offenses
The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, on three counts of terrorism-related offenses, bringing a tense legal battle to a decisive turn. Justice James Omotosho delivered the ruling on Thursday, holding that Kanu’s broadcasts and directives amounted to incitement of violence against security agencies and civilians in the South East. The court said the prosecution had established its case, even as the defendant declined to open his defense. Kanu had, in the days leading up to the verdict, tried to halt the proceedings. He filed a motion asking the court to suspend or vacate its scheduled judgment, insisting that the charges against him were invalid because they were anchored on the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act of 2013, a law he argued had been repealed. His legal team maintained that no citizen can be tried under a statute that no longer exists. The court dismissed that argument. Justice Omotosho ruled that by choosing not to take up the six days allocated for his defense, Kanu had effectively waived his right to present his side of the case and could not claim denial of fair hearing. The judge held that the trial had followed due process. The conviction now sets the stage for what may become an intense appellate battle. Kanu’s lawyers are expected to challenge the decision, particularly the court’s position that the repealed law still formed a valid basis for prosecution. Legal analysts say the issue could test the boundaries of statutory interpretation and raise questions about retroactive application of terrorism legislation. Beyond the courtroom, the ruling carries significant political weight. Kanu remains a polarizing figure whose earlier arrests and detention triggered unrest across the South East. The conviction may heighten tensions in a region already grappling with sporadic violence linked to separatist sentiment. Government sources say sentencing will be scheduled after all post-judgment applications are concluded. For now, the case edges into yet another phase, with its legal and political ripples likely to continue for months
| 2025-11-20 13:55:06