Contrary to widespread claims on social media, the Federal High Court in Abuja has no plans to revisit the case of the convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. This clarification follows viral but unsubstantiated reports alleging international pressure for a judicial review.
Social Media Claims vs. Judicial Reality
The false narrative originated from a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) by a user named John-Ezeakolam. The post alleged that Justice James Omotosho was set to re-examine Kanu's case due to pressure from the governments of Israel and the United States of America. It further claimed that the International Criminal Court (ICC) had mandated this review.
However, thorough verification by fact-checking platforms and statements from Kanu's own legal team have categorically dismissed these assertions. There is no evidence on the ICC's official website or its social media channels indicating any comment or mandate regarding Kanu's conviction and sentence.
Legal Counsel Confirms No Review Planned
In a decisive rebuttal, Kanu's legal counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, addressed the rumors directly. He stated unequivocally that if there were any legitimate move to "revisit" the case at the Federal High Court level, he would be centrally involved as counsel.
"If there is any such thing as 'revisiting' Nnamdi Kanu's case, I will be involved, either as of counsel or confidant. So, there is no such thing," Ejimakor confirmed. This statement underscores the baseless nature of the online speculation.
Justice Omotosho had previously sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on November 20, 2025, following his conviction on counts of terrorism. The judge found the IPOB leader guilty on counts 1, 4, 5, and 6 of a seven-count charge.
Appeal Process Remains the Proper Channel
Under Nigeria's criminal justice system, the appropriate avenue for challenging a High Court judgment is through the appellate courts. Kanu retains the right to appeal his conviction and sentence at the Court of Appeal and, ultimately, the Supreme Court.
It is highly unusual and procedurally incorrect for a lower court to revisit its own final judgment while an appeal is pending. As of now, the appellate court has not yet delivered its judgment on Kanu's conviction, making the claim of a High Court review even more implausible.
In a related development, the Federal High Court has scheduled a hearing for January 27, 2026, regarding a separate application by Kanu. This hearing concerns his plea to be transferred from the Sokoto Correctional Centre. Justice Omotosho directed that the ex parte application be converted into a motion on notice, to be served on all relevant parties before the hearing date.
The dissemination of false information regarding high-profile legal cases can create unnecessary tension and mislead the public. This incident highlights the importance of relying on credible news sources and official legal channels for accurate information.
