Prosecution Seeks Death Penalty for Nnamdi Kanu in Terrorism Trial

Prosecution Seeks Death Penalty for Nnamdi Kanu in Terrorism Trial

The Federal High Court in Abuja has reached a pivotal stage in the long-running terrorism trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

On November 20, 2025, the prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adegboyega Awomolo, formally urged the court to impose the maximum penalty of death following Kanu’s conviction on all seven counts of terrorism.

Awomolo argued that Kanu’s actions had directly led to the deaths of more than seventy-five security personnel and numerous civilians, alongside widespread destruction of public property in Nigeria’s South East region. He emphasized that the severity of the crimes demanded the harshest punishment, insisting that justice for the victims could only be achieved through capital sentencing.

The prosecution highlighted that five of the charges carry the death penalty, while the remaining counts prescribe lengthy prison terms ranging from five to twenty years.

The government’s legal team also requested additional measures to prevent future risks. These included the forfeiture of broadcast equipment seized from Kanu, restrictions on his access to digital devices or internet facilities during incarceration, and his detention in a facility other than Kuje prison, citing past jailbreak incidents there.

Despite the prosecution’s firm stance, a plea for leniency was made by Hon. Obinna Aguocha, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North & South. Aguocha appealed to the court to temper justice with mercy, reflecting the broader debate within Nigeria about balancing punishment with reconciliation in politically sensitive cases.

Observers note that Kanu’s conduct during trial was described by prosecutors as arrogant and lacking remorse, further strengthening their call for maximum punishment.

The case, which has spanned over a decade, marks a defining moment in Nigeria’s judicial and political landscape, particularly in its fight against terrorism and separatist movements.

The court adjourned proceedings for sentencing later in the day, leaving the nation awaiting a final judgment that could set a precedent for how terrorism-related convictions are handled in Nigeria.

This development underscores the gravity of the charges against Kanu and the government’s determination to pursue the harshest possible outcome, while simultaneously raising questions about justice, mercy, and the future of national unity in the face of separatist agitation.