Key Points
- The court found Kanu guilty on seven counts. Prosecutors say five counts carry the death penalty.
- Prosecutor Adegboyega Awomolo urged the judge to impose death. He said the law leaves no sentencing discretion.
- Judge James Omotoso will announce sentence by four fifty. Courtroom observers expect an immediate appeal by Kanu’s lawyers.
Nnamdi Kanu (Nnamdi Kanu) was convicted today by a Federal High Court in Abuja on seven counts. Prosecutors presented evidence linking his broadcasts to violent enforcement orders and incitement.
The federal government asked the court to impose the death penalty for several counts. The defence earlier refused to call witnesses as reported in Kanu declines defence submission.
What prosecutors said
Lead counsel Adegboyega Awomolo told the judge five counts require death. He said the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act mandates that punishment. The prosecution listed his broadcasts and orders as evidence of offences.
Awomolo asked the court to close the defence and sentence immediately. He reminded the judge the law leaves no sentencing discretion. They cited incidents linked to the enforcement of stay at home orders.
Judgment and next steps
Justice James Omotoso heard final addresses and reserved judgment today. Medical reports previously found him fit to stand trial as noted in NMA panel declares Kanu fit. The court heard arguments on counts involving incitement and bomb instruction.
The judge set a four fifty pm deadline for sentencing today. The defence said earlier it had limited time to respond fully. Observers said Kanu’s lawyers will file an immediate appeal after sentence.
Reactions
Community leaders called for calm across the southeast after the ruling. They urged citizens to avoid violence and respect legal steps. Elders called for calm dialogue and patience from all parties.
Kanu’s supporters gathered outside the court in small numbers today. Security sources said the scene remained peaceful and under control. Security officials said checkpoints were increased near the court precinct.
Legal context
The Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act prescribes maximum penalties for listed offences. Medical reports found him fit to stand trial as noted in NMA panel declares Kanu fit. Legal analysts said the statute reduces judicial discretion for certain counts.
If sentenced to death, Kanu’s team can appeal to higher courts immediately. An appeal could stay execution and extend the legal process significantly. Courts will also consider international human rights obligations during appeals.
What happens next
The court will publish a full judgement explaining its reasoning. That document will guide appeals and public understanding of the verdict. Lawyers said they expect filings in the Supreme Court if needed.
Court timing and reporting
Justice Omotoso said he would deliver sentence at four fifty pm. Reporters in the courtroom recorded the announcement and the counsel submissions. The government and legal teams will issue statements after the ruling.
Families and communities across Nigeria will watch the next legal steps closely. Civil groups urged calm and called for lawful channels for protests
