Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a notice of appeal against his conviction and sentences handed down by the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing the trial as flawed and unjust.
In the appeal dated February 4, 2026, Kanu is contesting his conviction on seven counts, including terrorism-related offences, for which he received five life sentences along with additional prison terms following the court’s judgment delivered on November 20, 2025.
The IPOB leader was convicted on charges such as engaging in acts preparatory to terrorism, making broadcasts intended to intimidate the public, and belonging to and leading a proscribed organisation.
He was also sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment for leadership of the banned group and five years for importing a radio transmitter without a licence.
Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the trial, delivered the judgment that led to the sentences.
In his grounds of appeal, Kanu argued that the trial was marred by fundamental legal irregularities and that the court failed to address issues arising from the disruption of the original proceedings following the 2017 military operation at his residence in Afara-Ukwu.
He contended that the trial court proceeded to hear the case and deliver judgment while his preliminary objection challenging the competence of the proceedings remained unresolved.
Kanu also maintained that judgment was delivered while his bail application was still pending, a situation he said undermined the fairness of the process.
He further argued that the court relied on a law that had already been repealed, claiming he was convicted under the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act, 2013, despite its replacement by the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 before judgment was delivered.
The appellant also alleged double jeopardy, insisting he was retried on issues that had earlier been nullified by the Court of Appeal, in violation of constitutional protections.
Additionally, he claimed he was denied a fair hearing because he was not allowed to submit a final written address before the court delivered its judgment.
Among the reliefs sought, Kanu asked the Court of Appeal to overturn the conviction and sentences and to discharge and acquit him on all counts.
He also notified the appellate court of his intention to be present at the hearing and indicated that he might conduct the appeal personally.
Kanu is currently being held at a correctional facility in Sokoto State after his request to be transferred to another facility in Niger or Nasarawa State was declined.
