Heavy security at Sokoto prison over Nnamdi Kanu’s arrival
The Sokoto Custodial Centre has been tightened following the transfer of the convicted leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to the facility, having been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Abuja after being convicted on terrorism and related charges.
Penpushing reports that although officials of the Sokoto Custodial Centre declined to confirm his arrival, Saturday, however, it was observed that unusual security activity around the facility, while armed personnel were stationed at strategic points within and outside the prison.
The observation also showed a truckload of soldiers drove into the premises—an uncommon development, while one resident nearby, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the residents saw soldiers entering in trucks, adding that security there has never been this tight.
Penpushing further reports that the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service, Jane Osuji, confirmed that Kanu was in their custody but declined to disclose his exact location, citing the sensitive nature of the matter.
The wife of the convict, Uchechi Okwu-Kanu, confirmed on her X handle that her husband had arrived at the Sokoto prison, explaining that information reaching her few hours ago indicated that her husband has arrived at Sokoto prison, as she criticised some supporters for sharing the development online before informing her.
Penpushing also reports that it would be recalled that Justice James Omotosho in his ruling ordered that Kanu be taken to a protective prison, pointing out that the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja was unsuitable due to past prison breaks and associated security risks.
The counsel of the convict Alloy Ejimakor on Friday, alleged that his client had been moved to Sokoto, lamenting that the transfer placed Kanu far from his legal team, family, and supporters, and urged Ndigbo to remain calm.
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