Court Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Brother, Sets December 8 Hearing for Transfer Request

The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed December 8, 2025, for hearing the ex parte motion filed by IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, who is seeking to be transferred from the Sokoto Correctional Facility to a location closer to Abuja to enable him effectively pursue his appeal.

Justice James Omotosho refused to entertain the application after Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu who is not a lawyer attempted to represent him in court. The judge stressed that only a qualified legal practitioner can move such a motion and advised Emmanuel to secure proper legal counsel or approach the Legal Aid Council.

Kanu was convicted on November 20, 2025, on all seven counts of terrorism and sentenced to life imprisonment. He was relocated to the Sokoto facility following security concerns over his safety at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

In his motion, Kanu argued that the 700-kilometre distance between Sokoto and Abuja makes it impossible for him to prepare his notice and record of appeal, especially as he currently has no legal representation. He asked the court to transfer him to a custodial centre in Suleja or Keffi, or any facility within Abuja’s jurisdiction.

Justice Omotosho also cautioned lawyers and the public against spreading misleading interpretations of the appellate process, emphasizing that Kanu does not need to be physically present in court for his appeal records to be compiled.