By Deborah Nnamdi
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday convicted the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, over his role in issuing sit-at-home directives that shut down economic, educational, and social activities across the Southeast, particularly on Mondays.
Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the judgment, described the actions linked to Kanu as “terrorist acts against Nigeria” that instilled fear, crippled businesses, and violated citizens’ right to freedom of movement.
The conviction followed the judge’s earlier ruling dismissing Kanu’s no-case submission after finding that the Department of State Services had presented sufficient prima facie evidence requiring him to enter a defence. However, Kanu declined to do so and was eventually foreclosed by the court.
According to the Federal Government, Kanu used broadcasts and public threats to enforce compliance with the sit-at-home order, warning that anyone who defied the directive would face consequences. Prosecutors said his comments incited insurrection and led to the closure of banks, schools, markets, petrol stations, and other institutions across the region.
Justice Omotosho held that with Kanu’s defence foreclosed, the court relied entirely on prosecution evidence and supporting affidavits. He stressed that terrorism encompasses threats or acts of violence that create widespread fear, especially when directed at innocent citizens.
Referencing several of Kanu’s speeches—including an interview with Sahara TV—the judge noted that Kanu threatened harm against Nigeria and even members of his own ethnic group, describing the country as a “zoo” and referring to the Southeast as “Biafra.” The court concluded that Kanu was fully aware of the implications of his statements.
Kanu was convicted on Count 1 for acts relating to terrorism. On Count 2, which centred on the sit-at-home directive that forced the shutdown of banks and schools, the court found that Kanu had unlawfully attempted to shut down the Southeast on May 30, 2021, despite lacking any constitutional authority to impose restrictions on citizens’ movement.
“The defendant is not the President of Nigeria and lacked the power to impose sit-at-home orders on any part of the country. The act is unconstitutional and amounts to terrorist activity,” Justice Omotosho ruled.
The court also convicted Kanu on Count 3 for leading a proscribed group, IPOB. On Counts 4 and 5—offences punishable by death—the judge agreed with the prosecution that Kanu incited attacks on security agents, government institutions, and national facilities, citing allegations that he encouraged the burning of Murtala Muhammed Airport and other public assets.
Justice Omotosho condemned Kanu’s conduct as “evil,” stating that someone who incites violence and anarchy against the state “does not deserve to live within society.”
More details are expected as proceedings continue.
