By Olayiwola Mercy
The Federal High Court in Abuja turned down Nnamdi Kanu’s request to be moved out of Sokoto Correctional Centre, saying the ex‑parte motion wasn’t the proper route. Justice James Omotosho explained that the Federal Government and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) have to be put on notice before any transfer can be considered, so the court struck out the relief that would have forced the move.
Kanu, who was convicted of terrorism offences on November 20, 2025 and sentenced to life imprisonment, had asked the court to relocate him to a facility within the court’s jurisdiction—like Kuje or Keffi—to make it easier to pursue his appeal. His lawyer, Demdoo Asan from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, argued that staying in Sokoto, more than 700 km from Abuja, was hampering his ability to prepare legal documents and meet his counsel.
During the hearing, Asan tried to push the motion forward, but the judge reminded him that an ex‑parte application can’t compel the respondents. He pointed out that the proper procedure is a motion on notice, giving the government and the NCoS a chance to respond. As a result, the judge ordered that both parties be served and adjourned the case to January 27, 2026 for the substantive hearing.
The court also dealt a minor blow to Kanu’s camp when it refused to let his younger brother, Prince Emmanuel, appear on his behalf because he isn’t a qualified lawyer. Justice Omotosho said the court couldn’t entertain a non‑lawyer representing the defendant, reinforcing the need for proper legal representation.
In his ruling, the judge noted that the notice of appeal Kanu referenced was filed on November 10, 2025—before the November 20 judgment—so it wasn’t on record. He asked Asan to confirm the date, and after the clarification, the judge struck out the “compel” clause in the motion, emphasizing that due process must be followed.
So, for now Kanu remains in Sokoto, and his legal team will have to refile the transfer request as a motion on notice, serving all interested parties before the court can even consider moving him closer to Abuja. The next hearing is set for early 2026, giving everyone a chance to weigh in on the matter.
