In a dramatic judgment that has sent shockwaves across Nigeria and the international community, the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday sentenced IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment after finding him guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges.

Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the ruling, convicted Kanu on seven counts, including terrorism financing, incitement through radio broadcasts, and operating a proscribed organization. While prosecutors pushed for the death penalty, the judge said he opted for life imprisonment “in the interest of mercy” and in line with global resistance to capital punishment.

Under the judgment, Kanu will serve life terms on selected counts, with additional 20-year and 5-year sentences running concurrently. The court also ordered that he be kept in protective custody in a highly secure facility not Kuje Prison and barred him from accessing phones, computers, or any digital devices.

Justice Omotosho further declared Kanu an “international terrorist,” citing his threats against foreign missions and repeated incitement of violence through Radio Biafra broadcasts. The court also directed the forfeiture of the radio transmitter seized from him during the investigation.

However, the verdict has ignited a fierce national debate. Kanu’s legal team, led by Aloy Ejimakor, swiftly rejected the ruling and announced plans to appeal, describing the judgment as a “miscarriage of justice.” Supporters of the separatist leader have taken to social media, accusing the government of criminalizing self-determination and free speech.

On the other hand, government officials and security analysts have hailed the ruling as a “bold step” toward curbing separatist violence and enforcing national security laws.

The trial, widely regarded as one of the most significant in Nigeria’s recent history, represents a pivotal moment in the longstanding push for Biafran independence. As responses continue to flood in, anxiety remains elevated across parts of the South-East, where Kanu commands a large and devoted support base.