Nnamdi Kanu has appealed his terrorism conviction, alleging legal errors and unfair trial practices, and seeks to overturn his life sentences in Nigeria.
Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has formally filed a notice of appeal against his terrorism conviction and the multiple sentences handed down by a Federal High Court in Abuja. The appeal, lodged February 4, 2026, challenges the legality and fairness of his trial, arguing that fundamental rights were breached and serious legal errors occurred during prosecution.
Kanu was convicted in November 2025 on seven counts including terrorism-related offences, incitement, and membership of a proscribed organisation, receiving five life sentences along with additional prison terms. He has been held at the Sokoto Correctional Centre since then.
In the notice of appeal, Kanu lists more than 20 grounds alleging that the trial court erred in law and denied him a fair hearing. Among key claims, he asserts that the court failed to address vital jurisdictional objections and motions before proceeding to judgment. He also argues that some of the statutes used to secure his conviction were repealed and that prosecution evidence was improperly handled or unauthenticated.
Kanu further contends that the trial exposed him to double jeopardy and that the high court wrongly interpreted his absence from Nigeria between 2017 and 2021 as evidence of fleeing justice. He is asking the Court of Appeal to quash the conviction entirely, set aside all sentences and discharge and acquit him of all charges.
ALSO READ: Malami and His Son Plead Not Guilty to Terrorism Charges in Federal High Court
Legal experts say the appeal highlights deep contention over how terrorism laws are applied in Nigeria and may set significant legal precedent if the appellate court finds merit in the grounds raised.