The Sokoto State government has refuted claims that Governor Ahmed Aliyu accompanied Abia State Governor Alex Otti during his visit to detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Custodial Centre.

In a statement released by Aliyu’s spokesperson, Abubakar Bawa, the government described the reports as false and mischievous, clarifying that Aliyu was performing Lesser Hajj in the Holy Land as of November 30, 2025, when Otti made the visit.

The statement noted that Governor Otti was received by selected commissioners and special advisers, who accorded him standard protocol courtesies, emphasizing Sokoto’s hospitality and respect for all visitors, regardless of tribe or religion.

The government reiterated that Aliyu remains committed to national unity, respects constituted authority, and continues to be a peace-loving and law-abiding citizen.

Otti’s visit, which IPOB described as “historic” and “surprising,” has sparked controversy, particularly among northern political circles and security stakeholders. He was accompanied by Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, Abia State Attorney-General Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN), and his media adviser Ferdinand Ekeoma.

The Sokoto government stressed that Governor Aliyu had no involvement in the visit, countering online insinuations of political alignment or covert endorsement.