Nnamdi Kanu sentenced to life imprisonment by Federal High Court Abuja over multiple terrorism charges

Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

Also read: Kanu convicted in shocking terrorism verdict

Justice James Omotosho delivered the ruling, convicting Kanu on counts one, four, five, and six, and opting for life imprisonment instead of the death penalty.

The court found sufficient evidence that Kanu engaged in acts intended to incite violence and destabilise the nation.

The sentencing follows a series of trials over multiple terrorism-related charges brought by the Federal Government.

The judgement marks a significant development in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to tackle separatist agitation and reinforce national security.

Legal experts note that the life imprisonment sentence allows for the possibility of appeal while signalling the judiciary’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law.

More details regarding the court’s rationale and the specific offences for which Kanu was convicted are expected to be released later.

The verdict has drawn immediate reactions from various political, security, and civil society groups across the country.

The Federal High Court emphasised that Kanu’s actions, which included directives for sit-at-home orders and public broadcasts threatening violence, were unconstitutional and posed a serious threat to public safety.