Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has declared Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), an “international terrorist.” This statement was made during the judgment on the sixth count of the charges against Kanu, which include threats to attack the United States Embassy and a former British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing.
In the ruling delivered on November 20, 2025, Justice Omotosho emphasized that Kanu’s threats and incitement constitute terrorism, referencing a broadcast where he urged followers to manufacture Molotov cocktails and attack security personnel. The judge quoted Kanu’s October 21, 2020, broadcast, in which he referred to military and police convoys as targets.
Justice Omotosho stated, “The defendant is not only a confirmed local terrorist, but I hold, without hesitation, that he is an international terrorist,” citing the severe implications of Kanu’s statements, particularly concerning protected individuals like ambassadors.
The judge further asserted that such violent rhetoric could lead to international incidents, undermining Nigeria’s diplomatic relations. He pointed out that actions such as bombing embassies do not align with calls for self-determination, reinforcing the view that Kanu’s behavior was criminal.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services since June 2021, after being arrested abroad and brought back to Nigeria. His trial has faced multiple delays, with his legal team arguing that his extradition and prolonged detention violate both domestic and international law.
