Hang Nnamdi Kanu, FG Prays Court after Terrorism Conviction By Justice Omotosho 

The Federal Government on Thursday urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to impose the death penalty on detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, moments after he was convicted on all seven terrorism counts.

Lead government counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, argued that Kanu’s alleged incitement resulted in the killing of security personnel and the destruction of public facilities across the South-East.

He linked IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, ESN, to activities he said were aimed at destabilising the country.

Awomolo insisted that only the maximum punishment would address the harm suffered by what he described as victims of Kanu’s actions.

He reminded the court that counts 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 carry the death sentence, count 3 attracts twenty years’ imprisonment, while count 7 carries a five-year jail term.

“My lord should consider the nature and gravity of acts of terrorism committed by the convict which were against innocent Nigerians that reside in the South East,” he told the court.

He also claimed that Kanu had shown no remorse, describing his conduct during proceedings as arrogant.

The prosecution further asked the court to order the forfeiture of seized broadcast equipment and to bar Kanu from using digital devices or internet-enabled tools wherever he is held.

Awomolo added that Kanu should not be sent to Kuje prison, citing past jailbreaks at the facility.

Before the court stood the matter down until 4:10pm for sentencing, Hon. Obinna Aguocha, who represents Ikwuano/Umuahia North & South in the House of Representatives, pleaded for leniency.