There is heightened tension and escalated security presence at the Sokoto Custodial Centre following the reported transfer of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to the facility after being sentenced to life imprisonment.
Kanu, who was convicted on terrorism and related charges, was ordered by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, to be taken to a “protective prison” due to security concerns at the Kuje Custodial Centre, which has suffered multiple prison breaks in the past.
Unusual Military Presence at the Prison
On Friday evening, residents near the Sokoto custodial facility reported an uncommon level of military activity around the prison.
Armed personnel were strategically positioned within and outside the centre, while a truckload of soldiers was seen driving into the premises.
One resident, who spoke anonymously, said:
“We saw soldiers entering in trucks this evening. The security here has never been this tight.”
Officials of the facility refused to confirm Kanu’s presence, but the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) spokesperson, Jane Osuji, confirmed he was in their custody—without revealing the location, citing the sensitivity of the matter.
Kanu’s Wife Confirms Transfer to Sokoto
Kanu’s wife, Uchechi Okwu-Kanu, confirmed via her X (Twitter) handle that her husband had arrived at the Sokoto prison:
“Information reaching me about three hours ago is that my husband has arrived at Sokoto prison.”
She expressed displeasure that some supporters shared the news online before informing her privately.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore also stated that the Federal Government had “secretly” moved Kanu to Sokoto.
Foreign Affairs Minister Calls for Calm
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, described the development as unexpected and called for restraint, especially among South-Easterners.
She noted:
“This is not the outcome we anticipated nor prayed for, but a reality now upon us… There is an utmost need for restraint.”
According to her, resolving Kanu’s case will require a broad-based approach involving political, religious, and traditional leaders from the region.
Ohanaeze, MASSOB, and Other Igbo Groups Reject Life Sentence
Major Igbo socio-cultural and advocacy groups have strongly condemned the judgment.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s Reaction
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ezechi Chukwu, Ohanaeze described the ruling as:
“A blow to justice.”
Its President-General, John Azuta-Mbata, urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and pursue a political solution to prevent further destabilisation of the South-East.
Ohanaeze warned that Kanu’s continuous detention has become a catalyst for:
- increased insecurity
- youth radicalisation
- growing separatist sentiment
Igbo National Council
The council’s president, Chilos Godsent, said the life sentence signalled an “ethno-political war” against the Igbo people. He called for a presidential pardon for Kanu.
Ohanaeze Youth Wing
National Publicity Secretary Chika Adiele criticised the ruling as an assault on justice, accusing the government of selective persecution.
MASSOB’s Position
The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), led by Uchenna Madu, dismissed the judgment as politically motivated.
Kanu’s Trial History
- 2015: First arrested on charges including treasonable felony.
- 2017–2021: Fled Nigeria after being granted bail.
- 2021: Re-arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria.
- 2024: Convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment.
Nnamdi Kanu’s transfer to Sokoto has triggered widespread reactions and sparked security reinforcements around the region. With political, cultural, and advocacy groups rejecting the judgment, all eyes remain on the Federal Government as calls for a diplomatic resolution intensify.
👉 Follow InfoviewMag for verified updates, breaking stories, and expert analysis on Nigeria’s most important issues.
Stay informed. Stay ahead.