The recent conviction of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment for terrorism on Thursday, November 20, 2025, in Abuja, has ignited significant reactions and concerns across Nigeria. The Federal High Court's judgment led to Kanu's transfer to the Sokoto Correctional Centre, a move that has been met with contention and calls for dialogue.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, described Kanu’s arrest, detention, and conviction as a failure of leadership. In a post on X, Obi warned that this development risks escalating tensions in the South-east region and deepening divisions amidst Nigeria's ongoing economic hardship and insecurity. He argued that Kanu’s detention was unnecessary and that the government should have prioritized dialogue, constructive engagement, and inclusive governance over coercion. Obi emphasized that the concerns Kanu raised were not insoluble and that addressing such grievances requires wisdom, empathy, and a willingness to listen, qualities he believes were absent in the government’s approach. He urged leaders to look beyond strict legalism and consider political solutions, negotiated settlements, and amnesty to promote peace and stability. Obi called on the presidency, the council of state, and respected statesmen to pursue reconciliation and inclusivity, stating that healing, reconciliation, and dialogue should be chosen over hostility, retaliation, and division for a united, peaceful, and progressive Nigeria.

Conversely, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State criticized Peter Obi’s comments, labeling them inappropriate for matters undergoing judicial review. Lagos APC spokesman Seye Oladejo warned against statements that could undermine national security institutions or court processes, suggesting Obi's remarks might politicize a sensitive security issue. The APC stressed the importance of consistent and balanced engagement on national security, urging respect for judicial outcomes while allowing for lawful appeal and dialogue. They reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to handling issues of terrorism and national stability in accordance with the law.

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, while acknowledging the conviction, assured the people of Abia State that the judgment is “not yet the end of the road” and that he has “activated and will continue to work on his freedom.” Otti recalled his past condemnations of military actions in 2017, advocating for dialogue as the best approach to resolving the IPOB issue. He expressed a strong belief that the poor management of the IPOB issue at its incubation stage created the current problem. The governor also revealed personal engagements with authorities at the highest level since December 22, 2023, on alternative resolution strategies, noting that agreements were made contingent on a quick dispensation of the matter. He remains confident that with the judgment delivered, the alternative resolution will now kick in.

Dr. Maxwell Opara, one of Kanu’s lawyers, visited him at the Sokoto Correctional Centre and confirmed that Kanu remains in high spirits despite his circumstances. Opara disclosed that efforts are underway to secure Kanu’s return to Abuja to file his appeal, emphasizing the urgency due to time constraints. He questioned the rationale behind Kanu’s transfer to Sokoto, arguing it complicates the appeal process, as his appeal is in Abuja. The Department of State Services (DSS) had moved Kanu to Sokoto after the Federal High Court judge, Justice James Omotosho, stated that the secret police could move Kanu to any correctional facility within the country.

Activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam described Kanu’s conviction as a “vindictive form of justice” that may haunt Nigeria in the future. Idam cautioned against jubilating over the judgment, arguing it does not represent the kind of justice needed. He questioned the nation’s approach, contrasting it with negotiations with bandits and terrorists, and highlighted perceived inconsistencies in the application of law, particularly against individuals from the South-east.

IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful echoed concerns, describing the sentence and transfer to Sokoto prison as malicious and a sustained campaign against Kanu and the Biafra self-determination movement. IPOB fears the transfer jeopardizes Kanu's safety and could frustrate his right of appeal, citing security challenges in north-west Nigeria. The group called on the Federal Government to guarantee Kanu’s safety, ensure his legal rights, including the ability to pursue appeals, are not impeded, and urged the international community to take note. IPOB also called for a United Nations-supervised referendum to defuse tensions, asserting their movement is peaceful and disciplined.