The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the hearing on the request of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to be transferred from Sokoto Correctional Centre to a facility closer to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Justice James Omotosho set the new hearing date for January 27, 2026.

Kanu, through the Legal Aid Council, sought relocation to either Kuje Custodial Centre (Abuja) or Keffi Custodial Centre (Nasarawa), arguing that the transfer would allow him to effectively manage his appeal and consult with lawyers. As an alternative, he requested any custodial facility within the court’s jurisdiction, including Suleja in Niger State, citing challenges of defending his case from Sokoto.

The court adjourned the matter to give the Correctional Service and prosecution proper notice. Kanu’s Special Counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed the postponement on X (formerly Twitter).

Kanu was sentenced in November to life imprisonment on terrorism charges related to a “sit-at-home” order in the South-East, which the court ruled was enforced through threats and violence. He also received concurrent sentences of 20 and 5 years on other counts. The court rejected the death penalty, citing international concerns. Following the ruling, Kanu was transferred from DSS custody in Abuja to Sokoto.

Justice Omotosho described Kanu as “arrogant, cocky, and full of himself”, noting that his rhetoric poses a serious threat to public safety. The court also linked his sit-at-home orders to the killing of former presidential aide Ahmed Gulak and accused him of inciting violence through broadcasts.

Kanu and his legal team have repeatedly raised concerns about the long distance from Sokoto, which they argue hinders his ability to pursue an appeal effectively.