Security has been significantly reinforced at the Sokoto Custodial Centre following the transfer of Nnamdi Kanu, the convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to the facility.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on Thursday by the Federal High Court in Abuja after being found guilty on terrorism and related charges. In his ruling, Justice James Omotosho ordered that Kanu be moved to a “protective prison,” citing security concerns at the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja, which has experienced past prison breaks.
On Friday, Kanu’s lawyer, Alloy Ejimakor, told Saturday Punch that the transfer placed his client far from his legal team, family, and supporters, urging Ndigbo to remain calm.
Officials of the Sokoto Custodial Centre declined to confirm Kanu’s arrival, but unusual security activity was observed around the facility. Armed personnel were stationed at strategic points within and outside the prison, and a truckload of soldiers drove into the premises—an uncommon sight, according to local residents.
One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “We saw soldiers entering in trucks this evening. The security here has never been this tight.”
The heightened security underscores the authorities’ concern over potential threats related to Kanu’s imprisonment and ensures the facility is prepared for any contingencies.