By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government has urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to impose the death penalty on Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following his conviction on seven terrorism-related charges.
The government’s request was made on Thursday by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), lead counsel for the prosecution, shortly after Justice James Omotosho found Kanu guilty on all counts.
Awomolo argued that Kanu’s alleged incitement was responsible for the deaths of security personnel and the destruction of public property. He accused IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), of seeking to destabilize Nigeria.
“The nature and gravity of the acts of terrorism committed by the convict against innocent Nigerians in the South East demand the maximum penalty,” Awomolo told the court, adding that Kanu had shown no remorse and had acted “arrogantly” during proceedings.
According to the prosecution, counts 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6 carry the death sentence; count 3 carries 20 years’ imprisonment, while count 7 attracts five years. The government also asked the court to order the forfeiture of all broadcast equipment used by Kanu and restrict his access to digital devices or the internet while in custody. Awomolo further requested that Kanu not be held at Kuje Prison due to security concerns, citing previous jailbreaks.
Before adjourning the court for sentencing at 4:10 p.m., Hon. Obinna Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North & South in the House of Representatives, made a plea for leniency.
Thursday’s proceedings bring to a close a trial that has spanned over a decade, marking a historic moment in Nigeria’s legal and security landscape.
