The Federal High Court in Abuja has refused to grant a request by Nnamdi Kanu for relocation from the Sokoto Correctional Centre to a prison closer to the capital or in Nasarawa State.
In an ex-parte application filed through the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Kanu sought an order compelling the Federal Government of Nigeria and/or the Nigerian Correctional Service to immediately transfer him to facilities such as Kuje Custodial Centre or Keffi Custodial Centre — or any correctional centre within the court’s jurisdiction — arguing that his current detention location would hinder his ability to prepare his appeal properly.
But during Monday’s hearing, Judge James Omotosho ruled that such a transfer cannot be ordered without giving the government and the correctional authorities an opportunity to respond. The judge struck out the “compel” request from Kanu’s motion and directed that a proper “motion on notice” should be filed and served on all involved parties for a fair hearing.
As a result, the court adjourned the matter — scheduling a fresh hearing for January 27, 2026. Only then will the issue of relocation be considered, after the government and NCoS have had a chance to present their position.
