Federal High Court Jails Nnamdi Kanu for Life

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has sentenced IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment, dismissing calls by the prosecution for the death penalty and anchoring his ruling on both legal reasoning and moral considerations.

In a solemn judgment, Justice Omotosho said the court was “not convinced” that capital punishment was appropriate, insisting that justice must be balanced with mercy. Citing Matthew 23:23, he stated that even scripture underscores compassion, adding, “It is on that note that we show mercy to the convict.”

The court also drew attention to global opposition to the death penalty, noting that “life is sacred to God,” and that international norms increasingly discourage executions.

Kanu received life imprisonment on counts 1, 4, 5, and 6 of the charges against him. He was additionally sentenced to 20 years for count 3 and 5 years for count 7, both without the option of fine. All sentences will run concurrently.

Justice Omotosho condemned the gravity of the terrorism-related offences and referenced Kanu’s previous unruly conduct in court, including attempts to attack security personnel.

While the ruling shields Kanu from execution, it confirms that he will spend the rest of his life in prison, drawing a major chapter to a close in a legal battle that has spanned a decade.

Source: X | Channels TV