Omotosho Convicts Nnamdi Kanu For Terrorism Charges
A Federal High Court in Abuja has rendered a verdict convicting Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, on three out of seven terrorism-related charges brought against him by the Federal Government.
In the judgment delivered on Thursday, Presiding Judge James Omotosho cited evidence presented by the prosecution, including video interviews in which Kanu issued violent threats against Nigeria and its citizens, as the foundation for the conviction.
The court found Kanu guilty on counts one and two, which involved making a series of broadcasts that incited violence and killings, furthering his separatist agenda for Biafra.
The court determined that Kanu’s threats of violence and killings, including the declaration of sit-at-home orders in the South East states, as conveyed in his numerous broadcasts, constituted acts of terrorism.
Additionally, Kanu was found guilty on counts four and five for inciting violence during the #EndSARS protests, which resulted in the deaths of security personnel and the destruction of government properties in Lagos.
The court also concluded that Kanu was not denied a fair hearing, contrary to his claims.
Justice Omotosho stated, “A person found guilty of the offense may receive a maximum sentence of death.”
According to the judge, Kanu’s repeated threats of violence and killings, including his directives enforcing sit-at-home orders across the South-East in various broadcasts, amounted to acts of terrorism under the law.
“The defendant enforced the Sit-at-Home order in the South East, declaring a complete shutdown of Biafraland.
“He stated that anyone attempting to open their shop around 12 noon would face dire consequences.”
Justice Omotosho held that Kanu’s orders were unconstitutional.
“This represents an unconstitutional act that is subversive, where individuals in the South East are compelled to remain at home, resulting in deserted areas, including farmlands.”
The court also noted that Kanu, who claims to be the founder and Director of Radio and Television of Biafra, made a broadcast suggesting that the Nigerian Army would perish and that everything associated with Nigeria would cease to exist in Biafra.
