JUST-IN: Nnamdi Kanu files Appeal, challenges conviction, life sentences

The convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a notice of appeal challenging his conviction and multiple prison sentences imposed by the Federal High Court in Abuja, insisting that the trial was fundamentally flawed and amounted to a miscarriage of justice.

In the notice of appeal dated February 4, 2026, Kanu said he was appealing against his conviction and sentences on seven counts, including terrorism-related offences, for which he was handed five life sentences and additional prison terms after being found guilty on November 20, 2025.

“I, Nnamdi Kanu, the Appellant, having been convicted and sentenced… do hereby give notice of appeal against my conviction,” the document stated.

Kanu was convicted for offences including committing acts preparatory to terrorism, making broadcasts with intent to intimidate the public, and being a leader and member of IPOB, a group proscribed by the Federal Government.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in his judgment, sentenced Kanu to five life terms for terrorism-related offences, 20 years’ imprisonment for leading the proscribed organisation, and five years’ imprisonment without an option of fine for importing a radio transmitter without a licence.

In his grounds of appeal, the IPOB leader accused the trial court of failing to address what he described as a “foundational disruption” of the original trial process following the 2017 military operation at his Afara-Ukwu residence in Abia State.

“The learned trial judge erred in law by failing to resolve the procedural and competence consequences of the foundational disruption of the original trial process in September 2017,” Kanu argued.

He further contended that the court proceeded to trial and judgment without resolving his preliminary objection challenging the competence of the proceedings.

“The learned trial judge did not hear or determine the objection,” the appeal document stated, adding that judgment was delivered while the objection remained pending.

Kanu also faulted the court for delivering judgment while his bail application was still pending, arguing that the action undermined the fairness of the trial.

In addition, he claimed that he was convicted under a law that had already been repealed, stating that the court erred by sentencing him under the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act, 2013, despite its repeal by the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The IPOB leader further argued that his retrial amounted to double jeopardy, contrary to Section 36(9) of the 1999 Constitution, noting that similar charges had earlier been nullified by the Court of Appeal.

He also alleged a denial of fair hearing, claiming he was not allowed to file or present a final written address before judgment was delivered.

Among the reliefs sought, Kanu urged the Court of Appeal to set aside his conviction and sentences, and to discharge and acquit him on all counts.

He also expressed his desire to be present during the hearing of the appeal, stating:
“I want to be present at the hearing of the appeal because I may be conducting the appeal in person.”

Kanu is currently being held at a correctional facility in Sokoto State, following the rejection of his request to be transferred to a facility in Niger or Nasarawa State.

Join Very Nigerian WhatsApp Channel
For Verified Breaking News, Exclusive Reports, Trending Stories, And Real-time Updates.
CLICk HERE TO JOIN!