By Ayomide Otitoju
The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal, challenging his conviction and multiple sentences imposed by the Federal High Court, Abuja.
In the appeal dated February 4, 2026, Kanu argued that his trial was marred by fundamental legal errors, which he said amounted to a miscarriage of justice. He is contesting his conviction on seven counts, including terrorism-related offences, for which he was sentenced to five life terms and additional prison sentences after being found guilty on November 20, 2025.
In his grounds of appeal, Kanu faulted the trial court for failing to address what he described as a “foundational disruption” of the original trial process following the 2017 military operation at his Afara-Ukwu residence. He also contended that the court proceeded with the trial and delivered judgment despite an unresolved preliminary objection challenging the competence of the proceedings.
The IPOB leader further argued that judgment was delivered while his bail application was still pending, which he said undermined the fairness of the trial. He also claimed that the court erred by convicting him under the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act, 2013, which he said had been repealed by the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 before judgment was delivered.
Kanu additionally alleged that he was subjected to double jeopardy, contrary to Section 36(9) of the 1999 Constitution, asserting that he was retried on facts earlier nullified by the Court of Appeal. He also complained that he was denied fair hearing, claiming he was not allowed to file or present a final written address before judgment.
Among the reliefs sought, Kanu urged the appellate court to set aside his conviction and sentences, and to discharge and acquit him on all counts. He also notified the court of his intention to be present at the hearing of the appeal, stating that he may conduct the appeal in person.
On November 20, 2025, Justice James Omotosho sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment at the Federal High Court, Abuja. He is currently being held at a correctional facility in Sokoto State, following the denial of his request for transfer to another facility.
