The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a notice of appeal challenging his conviction and multiple sentences handed down by the Federal High Court in Abuja, arguing that the trial was marred by serious legal errors and amounted to a miscarriage of justice.
In the notice dated February 4, 2026, Kanu said he was appealing his conviction and sentences on seven counts, including terrorism-related offences, for which he was sentenced to five life terms and additional prison sentences. He was found guilty on November 20, 2025.
“I, Nnamdi Kanu, the Appellant, having been convicted and sentenced… do hereby give notice of appeal against my conviction,” the document stated.
Kanu was convicted on charges including committing acts preparatory to terrorism, making broadcasts intended to intimidate the public, and leading and belonging to IPOB, which is proscribed in Nigeria. He was also sentenced for importing a radio transmitter without a licence.
Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the judgment, sentenced Kanu to five life terms for terrorism-related offences, 20 years’ imprisonment for leading a proscribed organisation, and five years’ imprisonment without an option of fine for the transmitter offence.
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 following the 2017 military operation at his Afara-Ukwu residence in Abia State.
He also argued that the court proceeded to trial and delivered judgment while his preliminary objection challenging the competence of the proceedings remained unresolved. According to the appeal, the objection was neither heard nor determined before judgment was given.
Kanu further complained that judgment was delivered while his bail application was still pending, which he said undermined the fairness of the proceedings.
He also contended that the court convicted him under a law that had been repealed, arguing that the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act, 2013, had been replaced by the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, before judgment was delivered.
Additionally, Kanu claimed he was subjected to double jeopardy, contrary to Section 36(9) of the 1999 Constitution, alleging that he was retried on facts previously nullified by the Court of Appeal. He further alleged a denial of fair hearing, saying he was not allowed to file or present a final written address before judgment.
Among the reliefs sought, Kanu urged the Court of Appeal to allow the appeal, quash his conviction and sentences, and discharge and acquit him on all counts.
He also informed the appellate court of his intention to be present at the hearing, stating that he may conduct the appeal in person.
Kanu is currently being held at a correctional facility in Sokoto State after his request for transfer to a facility in Niger or Nasarawa State was denied.
