Lawyer: Kanu's death‑penalty case could impact Nigeria‑UK relations

By Steve Oko

ABUJA — The lead counsel for detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu has cautioned that pursuing a death sentence for his client could have diplomatic repercussions, particularly for Nigeria’s relationship with the United Kingdom.

In a statement, Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, said the Federal Government’s reported cross‑appeal seeking a harsher penalty raises both legal and diplomatic concerns because Kanu holds dual Nigerian and British citizenship.

Ejimakor noted that the United Kingdom has a long‑standing opposition to capital punishment and usually offers consular and diplomatic support to its citizens facing the death penalty abroad.

He argued that any move to pursue capital punishment could draw international attention and potentially influence diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and countries that oppose the death penalty.

The lawyer said the case has implications beyond domestic legal proceedings and urged caution in handling matters that could generate international concern.

He maintained that Kanu’s dual‑citizen status adds an international dimension to the matter and could attract increased diplomatic interest in the case.

Kanu is currently serving a life sentence imposed by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, after being convicted on terrorism‑related charges in November 2025. The Federal Government has not publicly responded to Ejimakor’s comments.

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