FG Seeks Death Penalty for Nnamdi Kanu After Terrorism Conviction

“The Federal Government has urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to impose the death sentence on IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu after his conviction on seven terrorism charges, arguing that his actions warrant the maximum penalty.”

ABUJA — The Federal Government has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to impose the death sentence on the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, following his conviction on all seven terrorism-related charges.

The request was presented on Thursday by the Federal Government’s lead counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), shortly after Justice James Omotosho delivered the verdict finding Kanu guilty on all counts.

Addressing the court, Awomolo argued that the gravity of Kanu’s actions warranted the maximum punishment prescribed under Nigeria’s terrorism laws. He insisted that the IPOB leader engaged in “many illegalities” and should not benefit from judicial leniency.

The senior advocate noted that four of the seven counts for which Kanu was convicted carry the death penalty, urging the court to factor this into its sentencing considerations.

“It will not be considered justice that he is isolated and punished lightly in a country where we have Boko Haram, ISWAP, Lakurawa, et cetera,” Awomolo argued, comparing Kanu’s alleged actions to those of other violent extremist groups.

The prosecution maintained that Kanu’s broadcasts and directives, which allegedly incited killings, attacks on security personnel, and widespread fear, were destabilising and should be treated with the same severity imposed on other terrorist organisations.

Awomolo also asked the court to ensure Kanu remains in a secure correctional facility to avoid any security breaches while sentencing deliberations continue.

Kanu was earlier found guilty of issuing threats, inciting violence, ordering attacks on security agencies, and making statements deemed capable of terrorising the public—evidence the prosecution said was substantiated through recorded broadcasts.

However, Famousreporters.com reports that the Supreme Court had earlier for the unconditional release of the IPOB leader.