Breaking: Nnamdi Kanu sentenced to life Imprisonment

By Samuel Ogunsona

Leader of Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, (IPO) Nnamdi Kanu has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja made the pronouncement on Thursday.

Nnamdi Kanu was abducted in 2021 in Kenya. The rowdy trial which began 10 years ago is not expected to end with the sentence. Sources told Irohinodua that Kanu is set to appeal the judgement.

While delivering the verdict, Justice Omotosho acknowledged the gravity of Kanu’s actions, describing them as “atrocious.”

However, the judge opted against the death penalty, citing international concerns and the need for mercy.

“The weightier matters of the law are judgment, mercy, and faith,” Justice Omotosho said, quoting Matthew 23:23. “Life is sacred to God,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of balancing justice with compassion.

The court’s decision to sentence Kanu to life imprisonment rather than death was influenced by shifting global norms.

“Although the defendant’s behavior is condemnable, justice must be dispensed with a measure of mercy,” the judge stated.

Kanu was found guilty on several counts, including terrorism-related offenses.

The court noted that his behavior during the proceedings, which included “expressing violence” and nearly assaulting security officers, reinforced its conclusion about his propensity for violence.

In addition to the life imprisonment sentence, Kanu was handed a 20-year prison term without the option of a fine on count 7 and a 5-year term without the option of a fine on another count.

All sentences will run concurrently.

Justice Omotosho described Kanu as “arrogant, cocky, and full of himself,” and expressed concern about his persistent “tendency of violence.” Despite this, the court chose to temper justice with mercy, taking into account the need for compassion in the administration of justice.