Nnamdi Kanu Case: Can Nigeria Prosecute Alleged Terror Directives Issued Abroad?

The Nnamdi Kanu case raises an important legal question: can Nigeria prosecute a person who was outside the country when they allegedly gave instructions, funding or encouragement linked to violent acts in Nigeria? Under general principles of criminal jurisdiction, being abroad does not automatically prevent prosecution. A country may claim jurisdiction where alleged conduct or its effects are connected to its territory, provided its laws cover the offence. However, association with a group alone does not establish criminal responsibility. The prosecution must prove the specific charge, the accused person's alleged role, the required intent, and that Nigerian courts have jurisdiction. The case should be judged on evidence, the applicable law and fair-trial rights, not on emotion or assumptions.

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