FG seeks death penalty as court convicts Nnamdi Kanu of treason, terrorism

The Federal Government has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to impose the death penalty on Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following his conviction on Thursday for treason and terrorism-related offences.

Justice James Omotosho found Kanu guilty on all seven terrorism charges brought against him, prompting the government’s lead counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), to immediately request the maximum punishment.

Awomolo argued that Kanu’s alleged incitement through IPOB broadcasts and directives led to the deaths of multiple security operatives and the destruction of critical public infrastructure in the South-East.

He identified the Eastern Security Network (ESN)—described as IPOB’s armed wing—as instrumental in violent activities aimed at destabilising the country.

According to the prosecution, five of the seven counts—Counts 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6—carry the death sentence. Count 3 attracts a 20-year prison term while Count 7 carries a five-year sentence. Awomolo urged the court to consider the “nature and gravity” of Kanu’s alleged terrorist actions, insisting that the harshest possible sentence was necessary to deliver justice to victims.

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He further accused Kanu of showing no remorse throughout the trial, describing his courtroom conduct as marked by “arrogance.”

The Federal Government additionally sought the forfeiture of all seized broadcast equipment linked to Kanu and asked the court to bar him from accessing digital devices or internet communication while serving his sentence.

Awomolo also requested that Kanu not be remanded at Kuje Prison due to its history of jail breaks, arguing that doing so may compromise his safety.

Before the court stood the matter down until 4:10 p.m. for sentencing, Hon. Obinna Aguocha, member of the House of Representatives for Ikwuano/Umuahia North & South, made an emotional plea for leniency.

“I am the direct representative of Nnamdi Kanu. He is my brother and friend,” Aguocha said. “My Lord, I plead for mercy. I plead for clemency. I pray for peace, not just for the South-East, but for all of Nigeria.”

As the nation awaits the court’s final decision, the case continues to draw intense attention, reflecting deep political, ethnic, and security implications across the country.