By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment after finding him guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the verdict on Thursday, ruling that Kanu would serve life terms on counts one, four, five and six.
The judge noted that although the offences ordinarily attract the death penalty, the court opted for life imprisonment instead.
The court also imposed additional jail terms on the IPOB leader: 20 years on Count Three and five years on Count Seven. Both sentences carry no option of fine.
Justice Omotosho said all the sentences would run concurrently, effectively putting Kanu behind bars for life. He explained that the decision to merge the jail terms was made “to extend mercy” to the convict despite the severity of the offences.
Kanu, who has been facing trial for several years on allegations bordering on terrorism, secessionist activities, and incitement, was present in court when the judgment was read.
