Nnamdi Kanu Appeals Terrorism Conviction and Life Sentence in Nigeria

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has lodged an appeal challenging his conviction on terrorism charges and the life imprisonment sentence handed down by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Kanu filed the appeal on February 4, 2026, seeking to reverse the judgment delivered in November 2025.

He was convicted on seven counts related to terrorism offenses, including broadcasting messages deemed preparatory to further acts of terror. Kanu argues that the trial court failed to grant him the right to allocutus, denying him the opportunity to address the court before sentencing.

He also claims that mitigating factors were not considered in the imposition of the maximum punishment. Kanu is currently being held in Sokoto prison.

The appeal requests the court to quash the conviction, set aside the life imprisonment sentence, and grant his discharge and acquittal on all charges.