The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment for counts 4, 5, and 6 of his terrorism charges, instead of the death penalty.
Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the sentence, had previously convicted Kanu under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, noting that the gravity of the offenses technically warranted the death sentence. However, the court opted to show leniency in imposing life imprisonment.
Kanu’s conviction followed a trial that lasted over ten years and covered charges including acts of terrorism, incitement to kill security personnel, destruction of public property, and international terrorism.
The court had briefly adjourned after the conviction to prepare for the sentencing, highlighting the seriousness of the offenses and the legal considerations in determining an appropriate punishment.
Justice Omotosho emphasized that while the law prescribes the death penalty for certain counts, the decision to impose life imprisonment reflects judicial discretion and consideration of mitigating factors.