Court declares Nnamdi Kanu guilty of terrorism

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has found the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, guilty on Count One of the terrorism charges filed against him by the Federal Government.

Delivering the judgment, Justice Omotosho held that Kanu was guilty of committing an act of terrorism by issuing threats during a live broadcast in which he declared that people would die and the world would be at a standstill. The judge said the evidence presented by the prosecution remained unchallenged.

“Mr. Kanu knew what he was doing; he was bent on carrying out these threats without consideration for his own people,” the judge stated. “From the incontrovertible evidence, it is clear that the defendant engaged in preparatory acts of terrorism. He had the duty to explain himself but failed to do so.”

A tense and dramatic atmosphere dominated the courtroom during the judgment proceedings. The situation escalated when Justice Omotosho dismissed a fresh bail application filed by Kanu, prompting the IPOB leader to raise his voice in frustration.

Kanu had urged the court to grant him bail, arguing that previous judgments of superior courts supported his request. However, the judge ruled that the application lacked merit.

Judgment on the remaining counts is expected to continue.