The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, will appeal the life imprisonment and additional jail terms issued by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, according to his former lawyer and consultant, Aloy Ejimakor.
Speaking after the sentencing, Ejimakor said they would immediately head to the Court of Appeal to challenge the judgment. He emphasised that the appellate court is the only one in the country that sits as a jury and expressed confidence that it would overturn the ruling.
He described the judgment as a “travesty of justice,” adding that if the Court of Appeal does not rule in their favour, they will take the case to the Supreme Court. According to him, Kanu’s conviction will not stand.
Justice Omotosho had earlier sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on counts one, two, four, five, and six of the terrorism charges. He also imposed a 20-year sentence on count three without an option of a fine, and five years on count seven, also without an option of a fine.
The judge stated that although the offences attracted the death penalty, he opted for life imprisonment in line with global moves against capital punishment.
He added that Kanu should be kept in a secure facility suitable for his status, noting that the Kuje Correctional Centre would not be appropriate for his custody.
