The Department of State Services (DSS) has transferred the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, from its Abuja facility to the Nigerian Custodial Centre in Sokoto following his conviction for terrorism.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the transfer was carried out on Friday, barely 24 hours after a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on seven counts of terrorism.
The defence counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, who confirmed the development, raised concerns that the relocation would severely limit Kanu’s access to his lawyers and family members.
Ejimakor wrote, “Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has just been moved from DSS Abuja to the correctional facility in Sokoto; so far away from his lawyers, family, loved ones and well-wishers.”
A top security source also confirmed the transfer but declined making further disclosures.
“It’s true. That’s all I can say for now, but please don’t quote me,” the source said .
Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the landmark judgment on Thursday, upheld the DSS allegations that Kanu deployed acts of terrorism while pushing for the secession of the South-East, South-South and parts of Benue and Kogi States.
Although convicted on seven of the charges, the prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), insisted that the court should apply the harshest penalties provided under three of the counts, arguing that the law left no room for judicial discretion.
Awomolo also urged the court to order the closure of Kanu’s digital media channels, which the prosecution alleged were used to incite violence.
In addition, he requested that Kanu be confined in the “safest custodial centre anywhere in Nigeria until the execution of the sentence, to prevent interference or attempts by friends or enemies who may want to eliminate him.”
Justice Omotosho had earlier granted the DSS the liberty to relocate the separatist leader to any correctional centre deemed secure enough.
Kanu’s transfer to the far-North custody has generated concern among some supporters, who fear that the distance could complicate legal consultations and family visitation.
The DSS and Nigerian Correctional Service have yet to issue official statements on the reasons behind the choice of Sokoto as the detention location.
Kanu has been in detention since June 2021 following his extradition from Kenya. His trial has sparked nationwide and international reactions, with his supporters calling for his unconditional release while the government insists he must face the law.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
