Archive · 20 Nov 2025
Nigerian Court Convicts Separatist Leader Kanu on Terrorism Charges
A Nigerian court found Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of a separatist group, guilty of terrorism and treason.
He was accused of using his radio station to incite violence and divide Nigeria.
Kanu denied the charges, but the judge said his actions threatened the country.
Sentencing will happen later this month.
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), convicted on eight counts of terrorism and treasonable felony
Found guilty of broadcasting on Radio Biafra without license, inciting violence, and belonging to an unlawful society
Kanu denied all charges, claiming political persecution
Trial judge dismissed defense arguments, stating Kanu's actions threatened Nigeria's sovereignty
Sentencing adjourned to July 26, with prosecution seeking life imprisonment
- Who
- Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)
- What
- Convicted on terrorism and treason charges
- When
- June 29, 2022
- Where
- Abuja, Nigeria
- Why
- For broadcasting without a license, inciting violence, and belonging to an unlawful society
Prosecution
Defense
Broadcasting license
Prosecution
Kanu broadcast without a license, violating Nigerian law
Defense
Defense argued that Radio Biafra was based outside Nigeria, exempt from Nigerian broadcasting laws
Inciting violence
Prosecution
Prosecution presented evidence of inflammatory speeches encouraging violence
Defense
Defense claimed speeches were misinterpreted, taken out of context
- Age of defendant
- 54
- Group led
- Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)
- Radio station
- Radio Biafra
- Charges
- Terrorism, treasonable felony, broadcasting without license, inciting violence, belonging to an unlawful society
- Trial duration
- About two years