The court's decision came after a dramatic courtroom incident where Kanu was removed for objecting to the proceedings and insisting that the judgment couldn't be delivered without his written address being admitted. Justice Omotosho described Kanu's actions as "unruly behavior" and ordered security operatives to escort him out of the courtroom.
The charges against Kanu included terrorism, incitement, and violent directives allegedly issued through Radio Biafra broadcasts. The court ruled that Kanu's statements and orders amounted to terrorism, particularly those encouraging attacks on security personnel and enforcing a sit-at-home order in the South-East region. This order was deemed a violation of citizens' fundamental rights, especially freedom of movement.
In addition to the life imprisonment, Kanu was sentenced to 20 years in prison for another count without the option of a fine, and five years in prison for a separate count, also without the option of a fine. These sentences are to run concurrently.
The judge emphasized that Kanu's actions had led to bloodshed and destabilization in the South-East, and that he had endangered lives and national security. The court also ordered the forfeiture of Kanu's radio transmitter and barred him from accessing social media.