The family of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu has revealed why he is refusing to leave the Sokoto Custodial Centre, saying any move before the Court of Appeal rules on his case could weaken his legal battle.
In a statement signed by Prince Emmanuel Kanu, the Okwu-Kanu family said Kanu insists on remaining in Sokoto because the order sending him there is one of the key issues he is challenging on appeal.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment by Justice J.K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on November 20, 2025.
According to the family, the judge ruled that Kanu should serve his sentence at the Sokoto Custodial Centre after stating in the judgment that he “hates the North with a passion.”
The family argued that the prison order is not just an administrative decision but a major legal issue, claiming it creates an appearance of bias.
They said this forms one of the 15 grounds Kanu is relying on to overturn his conviction.
Representing himself before the Court of Appeal, Kanu believes leaving Sokoto voluntarily could allow prosecutors to argue that he has abandoned that aspect of his appeal.
“The Sokoto sentencing is not a mere administrative detail; it is a substantive ground of appeal,” the family said, insisting that only the Court of Appeal—not the government or foreign diplomats—should decide the matter.
The statement came amid reports that Kanu has been urged, both publicly and privately, to accept a transfer to Abuja. But the family said he has rejected every suggestion, insisting he will remain in Sokoto unless a court orders otherwise.
The family also claimed Kanu previously asked the trial court to reverse the Sokoto prison order but said the application was never heard on its merits before it was struck out.
They added that the issue would also be raised before the Court of Appeal.
It further disclosed that British consular officials explored the possibility of moving Kanu to Abuja, but he declined, insisting his case must be resolved through the courts rather than executive or diplomatic intervention.
Reaffirming its position, the family said Kanu is personally handling his appeal, the Sokoto prison order remains a live issue before the Court of Appeal, and he will not leave the prison until the court gives a contrary order.
“The Court of Appeal will decide the law. Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will obey the law. But he will not allow emotion, social media pressure, or diplomatic interference to dictate his legal strategy,” the statement said.
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