Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday refused to allow Prince Emmanuel Kanu, brother of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, to appear in court on his behalf.

The refusal followed a motion filed by Nnamdi Kanu, seeking his transfer from Sokoto prison to a facility closer to Abuja to facilitate his appeal proceedings. Emmanuel Kanu attempted to move the motion in court, citing his brother’s inability to appear in person.

However, Justice Omotosho clarified that Emmanuel cannot represent his brother because he is not a licensed legal practitioner. The judge emphasized that only a solicitor or advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria can move such applications on behalf of an individual.

“You cannot represent a human being when you are not a lawyer; you can only represent a corporate body,” the judge stated. He further noted that Emmanuel would require approximately six years to qualify as a lawyer.

The court advised that Nnamdi Kanu engage a qualified legal practitioner or approach the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria for proper representation. The matter has been adjourned to December 8, 2025, for further proceedings.