On Thursday, November 20, 2025, the Federal Government has formally requested the death penalty for Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, following his conviction on seven counts of terrorism. The request came immediately after the court delivered its judgment.
The application was presented by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the government’s lead counsel, who urged the court to impose the maximum punishment allowed by law. Awomolo argued that Kanu’s actions and directives allegedly resulted in the deaths of several security personnel, widespread fear, and extensive destruction of public infrastructure across multiple states in the South East.
The prosecution further maintained that the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, were deliberately designed to destabilize the nation and create an atmosphere of insecurity. According to Awomolo, the gravity of these offenses required a decisive response to serve as justice for the victims and to deter future acts of violence.
Awomolo explained that five of the charges, specifically counts 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6, carry the death sentence under Nigerian law. Count 3 attracts twenty years imprisonment, while count 7 carries a five year jail term. He also emphasized that throughout the trial, Kanu had shown no remorse and often displayed what he described as arrogance, which the counsel argued should be taken into account during sentencing.
In addition to the request for the death penalty, the Federal Government also asked the court to order the forfeiture of all radio and broadcast equipment confiscated from Kanu. The prosecution further requested that Kanu be denied access to digital devices and internet platforms during his incarceration, citing the alleged misuse of such tools to incite violence in the past.
For security considerations, Awomolo advised the court against committing Kanu to the Kuje Correctional Facility in Abuja, highlighting previous jailbreaks and concerns about potential attempts to free him.
Before the final sentencing, Hon. Obinna Aguocha, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ikwuano, Umuahia North, and Umuahia South Federal Constituency, pleaded with the court to show compassion and temper justice with mercy, noting the sensitive nature of the case and its impact on national unity.
The sentencing brings an end to a legal battle that has lasted more than ten years. It marks one of the most significant and closely watched judicial decisions in Nigeria’s recent history.
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