The Department of State Services has transferred the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, from its Abuja detention facility to the Nigerian Custodial Centre in Sokoto.
His lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed the development on Friday, stating that Kanu was moved far from his legal team, family, and supporters.
The transfer came a day after a Federal High Court in Abuja found Kanu guilty of terrorism. Justice James Omotosho sentenced him to life imprisonment on several counts related to terrorism, secessionist broadcasts, and the activities of IPOB.
Kanu received additional sentences of 20 years and five years on other charges, with no option of fine. The court ruled that his statements and broadcasts constituted threats to national security, contributed to violence in the South-East, and incited attacks on security personnel and civilians.
Citing previous prison breaks and security concerns, the judge ordered that Kanu be kept in a facility other than Kuje Prison and barred him from having access to digital devices. The seized radio transmitter linked to Radio Biafra was forfeited to the federal government.
Kanu’s legal team rejected the judgement, arguing that he was convicted solely based on statements rather than actions. They announced plans to appeal the ruling, insisting it represents a miscarriage of justice.
The prosecution, however, praised the verdict, stating that it reinforces the rule of law and demonstrates that no individual is above the country’s laws.
