The Federal Government has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to sentence Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, to death following his conviction on Thursday.
The request represents the most severe punishment sought so far in Kanu’s lengthy and deeply contentious confrontation with Nigerian authorities.
Government prosecutors made the application moments after Justice James Omotosho announced the court’s ruling that found Kanu guilty on multiple terrorism-related offenses.
They argued that the charges for which he was convicted qualify for capital punishment under Nigerian law.
They urged the court to impose “the maximum penalty available” given what they described as the gravity of the offenses.
According to DDM, the announcement immediately raised tension inside the courtroom, which had been tightly guarded by security forces throughout the day.
Outside the court premises, supporters who had gathered under heavy police supervision reacted with shock as the news reached them.
Security personnel quickly expanded their perimeter, anticipating a possible surge in emotions among Kanu’s followers.
Inside the courtroom, Kanu maintained a calm demeanor, appearing composed as prosecutors pushed for the death sentence.
His legal team strongly condemned the government’s request, describing it as “an extreme and politically motivated escalation.”
They insisted that the move contradicts earlier appellate decisions that questioned aspects of the prosecution’s case.
One of his lawyers told reporters that they would challenge both the conviction and the sentencing bid.
He argued that the entire process has been marked by constitutional irregularities and violations of due process.
Kanu’s case has stretched across several years, involving multiple hearings, adjournments, and disputes over jurisdiction.
His lawyers have repeatedly argued that the federal government has not presented a legally valid charge sheet.
They maintain that the case should have been dismissed long before now due to what they describe as fundamental defects in the prosecution’s filings.
Prosecutors have consistently rejected those claims, asserting that the charges are legitimate and supported by evidence.
They maintain that the state has acted within its legal authority at every stage of the proceedings.
They argue that the severity of the allegations warrants the harshest possible punishment.
The court is expected to announce a date for formal arguments specifically addressing sentencing.
Additional security personnel have now arrived at the court complex in anticipation of heightened public reaction.
Officials say access to the premises may be further restricted as proceedings continue.
The sentencing phase is expected to draw national attention as lawyers prepare for what could become an extended legal and political battle.
More updates are expected as the court prepares to hear submissions on whether Kanu will face the death penalty.