Court declines Nnamdi Kanu’s request for transfer from Sokoto prison

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday rejected an ex parte motion filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seeking to be transferred from the Sokoto Correctional Centre to a custodial facility closer to the Federal Capital Territory. Justice James Omotosho said the request, filed by Legal Aid Council lawyer Demdoo Asan, could not be granted without allowing the respondents to respond.

Kanu, who was convicted of terrorism-related offences on November 20 and sentenced to life imprisonment, was moved to Sokoto after the court held that the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja was unsuitable.

In his motion, Kanu asked the court to compel the Federal Government and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to transfer him to Suleja in Niger State or Keffi in Nasarawa State, arguing that proximity to Abuja would allow him to effectively pursue his appeal.

Court insists respondents must be heard

Justice Omotosho questioned the use of an ex parte application to “compel” the authorities and noted that the prosecution and NCoS must be put on notice. Asan admitted that the respondents had a right to be heard and agreed to have them formally notified. Consequently, one of the motions was struck out, and the court ordered that the necessary parties be served before the matter could be heard.

Family Says Court Declined Order to Produce Nnamdi Kanu in Abuja

The court also found issues with Kanu’s notice of appeal, which was filed on November 10, before the judgment was delivered, meaning there was no valid appeal in place.

Asan said steps would be taken to correct this. The case has been adjourned to January 27, 2026, to allow service of the respondents and a proper hearing of the motion.