The family of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has given a detailed update on his condition and state of mind following the Federal High Court judgment that sentenced him to life imprisonment on terrorism-related charges.
Kanu was convicted on Thursday by Justice James K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, a ruling that has sparked national debate, protests, and widespread public outcry across the country.
In an update posted on his official Facebook page, Kanu’s brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, confirmed that he met with the separatist leader shortly after the ruling was delivered.
According to him, Kanu appeared calm and even amused as he reacted to the judgment. Emmanuel said his brother questioned the legal basis of the conviction, insisting that it was fundamentally flawed.
Emmanuel revealed that Kanu laughed after being asked about his thoughts on the judgment. He stated that Kanu questioned how Justice Omotosho could convict him “under a repealed law,” which, according to the family, would render the entire process invalid.
Kanu also reportedly dismissed the evidence presented against him, describing it as fabricated and baseless. He expressed concern over what he called “evident bias and frustration” in the prosecution’s handling of the case.
Kanu further asked about the status of prior court rulings that had earlier discharged or exonerated him. Emmanuel said he agreed with his brother’s concerns, adding that Kanu believes the life sentence was “a predetermined script” rather than a fair legal decision.
The family maintained that the judgment raises serious legal and constitutional questions that must be addressed in the interest of justice.
