Court Denies Nnamdi Kanu’s Request To Leave Sokoto Prison, Orders Motion On Notice

The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the request by IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to be transferred from Sokoto Correctional Facility to a prison closer to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The court directed that Kanu must re-file the application as a motion on notice and serve it on all relevant parties before it can be heard.

Kanu, through the Legal Aid Council, had filed an ex parte application, requesting a transfer to either Kuje Prison (FCT) or Keffi Custodial Centre in Nasarawa State. He argued that the move was necessary to “effectively prosecute his constitutionally guaranteed right of appeal” and sought a court order compelling the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and/or the Federal Government to carry out the transfer.

On Monday, December 8, Justice James Omotosho denied the ex parte request, explaining that the interest of justice required the matter to be heard with all parties present. The judge set January 27, 2026, for the hearing of the motion on notice.

Legal analysts note that this aligns with standard procedure: ex parte motions, typically reserved for urgent or exceptional circumstances, are rarely granted when another party’s rights may be affected.

Last week, Justice Omotosho also refused to recognize the appearance of Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, as his representative, noting that he is not a licensed lawyer.

The court’s insistence on a motion on notice emphasizes the need for proper representation and the hearing of all sides before any order is made. Kanu must now re-submit his request, serve the relevant authorities, and await their responses before the court can rule on the transfer.