The Federal Government has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to impose the death penalty on Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following his conviction on seven terrorism-related charges.
The request was made on Thursday by the government’s lead counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, moments after the court pronounced Kanu guilty on all counts. The conviction marks a major turning point in a legal battle that has lasted more than a decade.
Prosecution Pushes for Maximum Penalty
Presenting the government’s argument, Awomolo insisted that Kanu’s repeated broadcasts and directives to his followers resulted in widespread violence across the South-East, including the killing of security personnel and destruction of public infrastructure. According to him, both IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), undertook coordinated actions that threatened national stability.
He argued that only the maximum punishment would provide justice to the families of victims and serve as a deterrent against future acts of terrorism.
Awomolo explained that several of the counts—including counts 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6—carry the death penalty under Nigerian law. Count 3 carries a 20-year sentence, while count 7 attracts a five-year jail term.
‘Kanu Showed No Remorse’ — FG
The prosecution further urged the court to consider what it described as Kanu’s lack of remorse. Awomolo told the court that the behaviour exhibited by the defendant during the trial reflected “arrogance and defiance,” adding that such conduct demonstrated an absence of penitence.
He also asked the court to order the forfeiture of all broadcasting equipment seized from Kanu, arguing that they were instrumental in disseminating messages that allegedly incited violence.
Additionally, the Federal Government requested an order restricting Kanu from having access to digital devices or internet services during his incarceration, saying such restrictions were necessary to prevent further mobilisation of followers from detention.
FG Opposes Detention at Kuje Prison
The prosecution counsel urged the court not to commit Kanu to Kuje Correctional Centre, citing previous jailbreaks at the facility. He argued that keeping Kanu there would pose security risks both to the defendant and to the general public.
Lawmakers Seek Leniency
Before the court stood down the proceedings for sentencing, Hon. Obinna Aguocha, the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, appealed for leniency. Aguocha pleaded with the court to “temper justice with mercy,” noting the sensitivity of the situation and the need for a resolution that fosters peace and reconciliation.
A Decade-Long Legal Battle
Thursday’s ruling effectively brings an end to a trial that began in 2015, followed by multiple arrests, bail disputes, flight from Nigeria, extradition controversies, and years of courtroom confrontations. The case has drawn national and international attention, particularly due to its political implications and the persistent agitation for an independent Biafra.
The court is expected to deliver its sentence later in the day after the proceedings resume.
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