Kanu Insists Nigerian Courts Lack Jurisdiction Over His Alleged Crimes

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has declared that Nigerian courts lack the jurisdiction to try him for crimes allegedly committed in London.

Kanu, who is currently facing trial on charges bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony, reportedly stated, “I committed those crimes in London. So, no court in Nigeria has the right to try me.”

The separatist leader’s comment underscores his longstanding contention that his arrest and extradition to Nigeria in 2021 were unlawful. His legal team has repeatedly argued that his extraordinary rendition from Kenya to Nigeria violated international law, thereby stripping Nigerian courts of the authority to prosecute him.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government maintains that Kanu’s actions, including alleged incitement and coordination of violent attacks through IPOB’s media channels, have had direct effects within Nigeria’s territory a basis it insists gives the courts full jurisdiction to try him.

The case, which has drawn national and international attention, continues to spark debate over jurisdiction, sovereignty, and the limits of international justice.