By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a notice of appeal challenging his conviction and multiple sentences by the Federal High Court in Abuja, claiming his terrorism trial was riddled with legal errors.
In the appeal dated February 4, 2026, Kanu said he was contesting his conviction on seven counts, including terrorism related offences, for which he received five life terms and additional prison sentences. He was convicted on November 20, 2025.
Kanu was found guilty of offences including acts preparatory to terrorism, broadcasts allegedly intended to intimidate the public, and leading and belonging to IPOB, which the Federal Government has proscribed.
Justice James Omotosho sentenced him to five life terms, 20 years imprisonment for leading the proscribed group, and five years imprisonment without an option of fine for importing a radio transmitter without a licence.
Kanu argued that the trial court failed to address what he described as a disruption of the original proceedings following the 2017 military operation at his Afara Ukwu residence in Abia State.
He also faulted the court for proceeding to judgment while his preliminary objection challenging the competence of the trial was allegedly unresolved, and for delivering judgment while his bail application was still pending.
Kanu further claimed the court erred by convicting him under the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act 2013, which he argued had been repealed by the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022 before judgment was delivered.
He also alleged double jeopardy and denial of fair hearing, insisting he was not allowed to file or present a final written address.
Kanu urged the Court of Appeal to quash his conviction and sentences and to discharge and acquit him on all counts. He also indicated his intention to be present at the hearing.
Kanu is being held at a correctional facility in Sokoto State after his request for transfer to a facility in Niger or Nasarawa State was rejected.