Court Rejects Kanu’s Request to Move from Sokoto Prison
The Federal High Court in Abuja has declined the request by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to be transferred from Sokoto Correctional Centre to a prison closer to the Federal Capital Territory.
Justice James Omotosho ruled on Monday that Kanu’s application, filed through the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria lawyer Demdoo Asan, could not be considered as an ex parte motion, which is a request made without notifying the other party.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment for terrorism-related offences on November 20, a verdict his family has rejected and plans to appeal. Following his conviction, he was moved to the Sokoto Correctional Centre after the court deemed the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja unsuitable for him.
In his motion, Kanu asked to be transferred to facilities closer to Abuja, suggesting Suleja in Niger State or Keffi in Nasarawa State. He argued that a transfer would help him effectively pursue his constitutionally guaranteed right to appeal.
The court noted that the Federal Government and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) must be notified to respond before any order could be granted. Justice Omotosho struck out the part of Kanu’s request that sought to “compel” the transfer, explaining that such an order cannot be granted without hearing from the other parties.
Earlier, the court had refused to allow Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel, to represent him, directing that a qualified lawyer be engaged instead. Asan acknowledged that the respondents needed to be served notice and agreed to follow the proper procedure.
The court also raised issues with a notice of appeal filed by Kanu before the judgment was delivered, noting it was invalid. Asan confirmed they would correct the filing. The matter has been adjourned to January 27, 2026, to allow Kanu to serve the required parties and have his application properly heard.
This ruling emphasizes the importance of due process in legal proceedings and ensures that all parties, including the Federal Government and the NCoS, have the opportunity to respond before decisions are made.
