Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has explained why he did not impose the death penalty on Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), despite the charges carrying a capital punishment.
While delivering his judgment, Justice Omotosho said he chose to show mercy. He referenced a passage from the book of Matthew, noting that Jesus Christ taught his followers to extend mercy, and this influenced his decision.
The judge added that although the death sentence was the prescribed punishment, international human rights standards now strongly oppose capital punishment. He noted that if not for these considerations, Kanu “deserved to die” for the severity of his actions.
Justice Omotosho delivered the ruling on Thursday after convicting Kanu on all seven terrorism-related charges brought by the Department of State Services.
According to the judge, the prosecution presented strong and credible evidence proving its case. He also faulted Kanu for failing to present a defence and instead choosing to rely entirely on the prosecution’s evidence—a decision that left the court with no choice but to convict him.
Justice Omotosho further criticised Kanu’s pursuit of Biafra through violent means, describing IPOB’s actions under his leadership as consistent with terrorism.
