The Igbo community in Sokoto State on Wednesday marked Christmas Day with detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, and other inmates at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, in what it described as a humanitarian outreach driven by compassion and communal responsibility.
Members of the community visited the correctional facility, where they shared meals and fellowship with inmates, extending the Christmas celebration beyond the walls of their homes to those in custody.
In a statement signed by the community’s leaders, Nze A. C. Madu and made available to journalists, the group said the gesture was inspired by the spirit of Christmas and the values of charity, unity and inclusiveness deeply rooted in Igbo culture.
According to the statement, the outreach was influenced by Kanu’s reported preference not to dine alone during festive periods, a consideration that prompted the community to broaden its scope beyond a single individual.
“Understanding his reported preference not to dine alone, especially during the festive season of Christmas, the community made a decisive and inclusive choice,” the statement said.
“Rather than limiting their generosity to one person, we elected to provide festive meals for the entire inmate population of the facility.”
The group said the initiative ensured that all inmates at the centre, estimated at about 1,300, were able to partake in the celebration, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“This benevolent act ensured that all approximately 1,300 inmates shared in the spirit of the season,” the statement added.
Describing the outreach as an expression of Igbo values and universal ideals of humanity, the community said the visit reflected the cultural principle of being one another’s keeper.
“It was performed as a humanitarian service to all, irrespective of origin or circumstance,” the statement read.
“It underscores a commitment to humanity and shared goodwill, offering a moment of comfort and inclusivity during the holiday period.”
The Sokoto Igbo community expressed hope that the gesture would promote peace, unity and mutual understanding long after the Christmas celebrations.
Kanu is currently being held at the Sokoto Correctional Centre following his transfer after Justice James Omotosho, in November 2025, sentenced him to life imprisonment over several terrorism-related charges.
The court also handed the IPOB leader a 20-year jail term on one count and a five-year jail term on another, both without an option of fine, after convicting him on all seven counts brought against him.
The judgment has, however, attracted widespread criticism from various quarters, while Kanu has indicated his intention to challenge the conviction and sentences at the appellate court.
'
'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
