The Centre for Social and Economic Rights (CSER) has hailed the conviction and sentencing of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, describing the judgment as a major step forward in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Nelson Ekujumi, the civil society organisation praised the Federal High Court for what it called a “courageous, thorough and justice-driven decision” on the seven-count charge against Kanu.
“We regard this conviction and sentencing as a significant victory in Nigeria’s ongoing war against terrorism,” the statement read.
CSER expressed concern that despite the violence attributed to IPOB over the years, some individuals and groups continued to frame the organisation as a freedom movement rather than acknowledge the attacks, killings, and destruction linked to its activities, particularly in the South-East.
The group further alleged that since 2015, Kanu had repeatedly used petitions and legal manoeuvres to delay his trial, culminating in what it described as unruly conduct during proceedings, which led to him being escorted out of the courtroom.
CSER commended the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, for what it described as “patience, perseverance, and diligence” throughout the trial, noting that the judgment honours the rights of victims affected by violence attributed to IPOB activities, including during the 2020 EndSARS unrest.
The organisation also referenced recent terrorism-related convictions, including that of ISWAP commander Husseni Ismaila, saying they demonstrate the state’s commitment to combating extremism within the boundaries of the law.
“With this judgment and the ongoing efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies, the Nigerian State is sending a clear message that terrorism will be confronted decisively and lawfully, no matter how long it takes,” Ekujumi said.
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