NNAMDI KANU APPEALS TERRORISM CONVICTION, SEEKS TO DEFEND HIMSELF

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal, challenging his conviction and multiple sentences handed down by the Federal High Court.

Kanu was convicted in November last year by Justice James Omotosho on seven counts bordering on terrorism-related offences, including acts preparatory to terrorism, incitement, and membership of IPOB, a group proscribed by the Nigerian government.

Currently detained at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, Kanu was sentenced to several life terms, alongside 20 years’ imprisonment for membership of IPOB and five years for importing a radio transmitter without a licence.

In the appeal, Kanu raised 22 grounds, alleging errors of law, denial of fair hearing, and a miscarriage of justice.

He contended that the trial court failed to determine critical jurisdictional issues, disregarded pending objections and bail applications, and relied on statutes that had been repealed.

He also argued that the proceedings subjected him to double jeopardy and that his conviction was not supported by proof beyond reasonable doubt.

Kanu further challenged the trial court’s reliance on alleged broadcasts and statements said to constitute incitement, insisting that such materials were neither properly authenticated nor conclusively linked to him.

Addressing claims relating to his absence from Nigeria between 2017 and 2021, Kanu maintained that he did not flee voluntarily but was forced out by actions of the state, adding that this period should not have been used against him during trial.

Among the reliefs sought, Kanu is urging the Court of Appeal to quash his conviction, set aside all sentences, and discharge and acquit him of all charges.

He also requested to be physically present during the appeal hearing, indicating his intention to conduct his defence personally.