The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday declined an ex parte motion filed by the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, seeking to be transferred from the Sokoto Correctional Centre to another facility closer to the Federal Capital Territory.
Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the matter, ruled that the application could not be granted in the manner it was presented. The motion, which was moved by Demdoo Asan from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, asked the court to order Kanu’s relocation to a custodial facility within or near Abuja to ease access to legal representation and ensure his safety.
However, Justice Omotosho held that such a request must follow due process and cannot be determined through an ex parte motion, which is heard without the presence or input of the opposing party. The judge emphasized that issues concerning the transfer of an inmate involve security considerations and therefore require all parties, including the Federal Government, to be heard.
The court’s decision means that Kanu will remain in the Sokoto Correctional Centre pending further proceedings. The substantive application on the matter is expected to be heard when all relevant parties are properly served and present before the court.
Kanu has been in custody facing charges related to alleged treasonable felony and actions linked to the proscribed separatist group. His legal team has continued to seek various forms of relief, citing concerns about his health, safety, and access to legal counsel.
