U.S. Christmas Day Airstrikes in Sokoto Trigger Fresh Calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s Relocation

Location: Sokoto State, Nigeria

The Christmas Day U.S. military strikes in Sokoto targeting alleged terrorists have intensified concerns over the safety of high-profile detainees in northern Nigeria, particularly Nnamdi Kanu, the jailed IPOB leader. Key points include:

1. Call for Relocation:

Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s Special Counsel, stated on X (Twitter) that the strikes confirm Sokoto is “riddled with terrorists,” making it unsafe for Kanu’s custody.

Ejimakor urged urgent transfer of Kanu to a location outside northern Nigeria’s so-called “terrorist belt.”



2. Kanu’s Legal Background:

Kanu was extradited to Nigeria in 2021 and is serving sentences imposed in November 2025 by Justice James Omotosho:

Life imprisonment on terrorism-related charges

20-year term on count three

5-year term on count seven


Kanu plans to challenge these convictions at the appellate level.



3. Security Context:

Sokoto and neighboring states have seen rising attacks by bandits and insurgent groups.

Government authorities claim ongoing operations are maintaining security, but public and legal concerns persist.



4. Implications:

The airstrikes highlight ongoing insecurity in the region and raise questions about the suitability of Sokoto for housing high-profile detainees.

The situation adds to broader debates over detainee safety, counterterrorism operations, and regional stability in northern Nigeria.





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Igbo Community In Sokoto Celebrates Christmas With Nnamdi Kanu, Shares Meals With Over 1,300 Prison Inmates

The Igbo community in Sokoto State marked the 2025 Christmas celebration by extending a humanitarian gesture to inmates of the Sokoto Correctional Centre, including the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. The community spent Christmas Day at the facility, sharing meals, fellowship, and goodwill with inmates as part of activities inspired by compassion, communal responsibility, and the spirit of the season.

According to a statement signed by Nze A. C. Madu on behalf of the Sokoto Igbo community leadership, the outreach was motivated by Igbo cultural values of solidarity and humanity, as well as what the group described as Nnamdi Kanu’s reported preference not to dine alone during festive periods. Rather than focusing on a single individual, the community said it chose an inclusive approach by providing meals for the entire inmate population.

The statement explained that the initiative ensured that all approximately 1,300 inmates at the correctional centre benefitted from the Christmas celebration, regardless of background or circumstance. Members of the Igbo community reportedly shared food and moments of fellowship with the inmates, offering comfort and a sense of belonging during the holiday.

Describing the visit as a humanitarian service rooted in Igbo traditions, the community said the gesture reflected the principle of being one another’s keeper and underscored universal ideals of charity, compassion, and shared goodwill. The group expressed hope that the outreach would promote peace, unity, and mutual understanding beyond the festive season.

Nnamdi Kanu is currently being held at the Sokoto Correctional Centre following his conviction and sentencing in November 2025 by Justice James Omotosho. The IPOB leader was sentenced to life imprisonment on multiple terrorism-related counts, alongside additional jail terms of 20 years and five years on other counts, all without an option of fine. Despite widespread criticism of the judgment, Kanu has indicated his intention to challenge both the conviction and sentence at the appellate court.

UK-Based Lawyer Accuses Justice Omotosho of Judicial Misconduct, Says Nnamdi Kanu Was Convicted Under Repealed Terrorism Law

A UK-based human rights lawyer, Jude Njoku Jude, has accused Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja of gross legal and constitutional violations in the trial of IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The lawyer alleged that Kanu was convicted under the repealed Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013 instead of the operative Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, contrary to Section 36(12) of Nigeria’s Constitution. He further claimed that the court lacked jurisdiction, ignored challenges to its authority, and contradicted itself during proceedings. Jude also faulted the court for overlooking alleged illegal rendition from Kenya, violations of international law, and failure to establish jurisdiction over alleged broadcasts made in the United Kingdom. Describing the trial as a “constitutional ambush,” he said at least 17 major legal errors render the conviction void and subject to being overturned.

Court Sets February 26 Judgment Date in NDLEA’s Asset Disclosure Case Against Abba Kyari

A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled February 26, 2026, to deliver judgment in the NDLEA’s case against suspended DCP Abba Kyari and his brothers, who face a 23-count charge involving alleged non-disclosure of assets and money laundering. The NDLEA claims Kyari illegally concealed ownership of 14 properties and large sums of money traced to him. After hearing final arguments, Justice James Omotosho ruled that a prima facie case had been established, prompting Kyari to defend himself. He denied owning several properties and said some belonged to his late father. His brothers opted not to call witnesses. Kyari is also facing a separate NDLEA trial over alleged cocaine-related offences.

Court Rejects Ex-Minister Saleh Mamman’s No-Case Submission in ₦33.8bn Fraud Trial, Orders Defence

A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed former Power Minister Saleh Mamman’s no-case submission in the ₦33.8billion fraud case filed by the EFCC. Justice James Omotosho ruled that the prosecution had established a prima facie case after presenting 17 witnesses and 43 exhibits linking Mamman to the alleged diversion of funds meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydropower projects. The court held that the evidence was strong enough to require the ex-minister to enter a defence. The case was adjourned to February 23, 2026.

Court Adjourns Hearing on Nnamdi Kanu’s Request for Transfer From Sokoto Prison to January 27

The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of Nnamdi Kanu’s application seeking his transfer from the Sokoto Correctional Centre to a facility nearer to the FCT. Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to January 27, 2026, directing that the Correctional Service and prosecution be notified. Kanu, who was recently sentenced to life imprisonment on terrorism charges, argues that his distant detention location hinders effective legal consultation and obstructs his appeal process. His legal team maintains that relocating him to Kuje, Keffi, or any facility within the court’s jurisdiction is essential for fair defence.

Nnamdi Kanu Asks Court to Move Him From Sokoto Prison, Cites Hardship Blocking His Appeal

IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, recently sentenced to life imprisonment, has filed a fresh motion at the Federal High Court in Abuja requesting his transfer from the Sokoto Custodial Centre. Kanu argued that being detained over 700 kilometres away from Abuja makes it impossible for him to effectively prepare and pursue his appeal, describing the situation as a violation of his constitutional rights.
His motion—personally signed—was presented by his brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, who urged the court to hear the case in Kanu’s absence. However, Justice James Omotosho rejected Emmanuel’s appearance, ruling that he could not represent the convict because he is not a lawyer.
Kanu asked to be moved to a facility within Abuja’s jurisdiction or to a closer correctional centre such as Suleja or Keffi. The court adjourned the hearing to 8 December 2025, advising Kanu to hire legal counsel. The judge also cautioned the public against misinterpreting court processes regarding appeal documentation.

Court Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Bid to Leave Sokoto Prison, Says Brother Cannot Represent Him

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a fresh attempt by IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to challenge his placement in Sokoto prison. His younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, appeared before the court to move a motion seeking Kanu’s transfer to Abuja, arguing it would allow him to properly pursue his appeal.
However, Justice James Omotosho refused to hear the motion, stating that Emmanuel could not represent the convict because he is not a lawyer. The judge ruled that only a legal practitioner can move such an application on behalf of a sentenced person.
Kanu was recently handed multiple prison terms, including life imprisonment, for terrorism-related offences. His sentencing continues to spark national debate, with analysts urging dialogue to address tensions in the southeast.

Trial of Ex-Acting Accountant-General Nwabuoku Stalled as Defence Counsel Fails to Appear in N868m Fraud Case

The trial of former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation, Chukwunyere Anamekwe Nwabuoku, was on Thursday stalled at the Federal High Court in Abuja after his lead counsel, Norrison Quakers (SAN), failed to appear. Nwabuoku faces an amended nine-count charge filed by the EFCC, alleging money laundering and diversion of N868.4 million during his tenure as Director of Finance at the Ministry of Defence. Despite opposition from the prosecution, Justice James Omotosho granted an adjournment “in the interest of justice,” shifting the trial to February 2, 2026. The court had earlier ruled that Nwabuoku must enter his defence after dismissing his no-case submission.

Court Debunks Assassination Rumour on Judge Who Sentenced Nnamdi Kanu — Labels Viral Claims ‘Fake News’


The Federal High Court has firmly denied a viral report alleging that Justice James Omotosho survived an assassination attempt days after sentencing IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment.

The rumour, circulated by a Facebook blogger, claimed the judge was attacked and rushed to the hospital. However, in an official statement on Sunday, Chief Registrar Sulaiman Hassan described the story as completely false, unfounded, and designed to mislead Nigerians.

The statement, titled “Rebuttal to False Publication by ‘Celebrity Blogger’ on the Alleged Assassination Attempt on Justice James Omotosho”, urged the public to disregard the report and refrain from spreading misinformation.

“We firmly and unequivocally declare that the said report is completely false,” the court stated.
“The public is advised to treat this publication as fake news.”

Hassan expressed concern over the motive behind the fabrication, noting that such claims could spark panic and undermine confidence in the judiciary. He called on security agencies to investigate and prosecute those behind the malicious publication under cybercrime and defamation laws.

BACKGROUND ON THE CASE
Justice Omotosho had on Thursday sentenced Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment on terrorism charges. While several counts carried the death penalty, the judge opted for leniency, saying:

“As a Christian, I chose to be merciful.”

Kanu received life sentences on multiple counts, with additional terms running concurrently. The court also ordered his transfer to protective custody outside Kuje Prison and restricted his access to digital devices.

The judge further ruled that Kanu’s seized radio transmitter be forfeited to the Federal Government, with DSS allowed to pursue forfeiture of additional exhibits.

Describing the IPOB leader as “unruly” and “not remorseful,” Justice Omotosho maintained that the defendant still demonstrated “a tendency of violence.”

Nnamdi Kanu moved from DSS detention to Sokoto prison.

Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been transferred to a maximum-security correctional facility in Sokoto State following his sentencing to life imprisonment on Thursday by a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment convicting Kanu on multiple terrorism-related charges. He was immediately remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service, ending his years-long detention at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja.

His Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor confirmed the development on Social Media.

He wrote; “MAZI NNAMDI KANU has just been moved from DSS Abuja to the correctional facility (prison) in Sokoto; so far away from his lawyers, family, loved ones and well wishers.”

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja did indeed dismiss a fresh bail application from Nnamdi Kanu on Thursday, November 20, 2025. This ruling preceded the court's subsequent decision to convict the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader on terrorism charges.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted Nnamdi Kanu of the proscribed separatist group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) on all the offences contained in the seven-count terrorism charge.

Justice James Omotosho, in his ongoing judgment in Kanu’s trial, found him guilty on all the counts in the charge being prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS).

Justice Omotosho held that the prosecution led sufficient credible evidence to establish its case against Kanu.

The judge said the court has no option than to believe the evidence as led by the prosecution since the defendant failed to enter his defence, but chose to gamble by resting his case on that of the prosecution.

Justice Omotosho is still reading the remaining part of the judgment.

Court Fixes 20 November for Judgment in Nnamdi Kanu’s Terrorism Trial.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed 20 November for judgment in the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), over allegations of terrorism.

Justice James Omotosho scheduled the judgment date on Friday after foreclosing Kanu’s defence, following the IPOB leader’s continued refusal to open his defence on the grounds that the charges against him were filed under a repealed law.

“This court has given the defendant the opportunity required under Section 36 of the Constitution, and I will not allow this to continue,” the judge said, ruling that Kanu had effectively waived his right to defence.

Earlier on Friday, the court gave Kanu about one hour to file the documents he claimed he required, but the situation remained unchanged.

The development comes after several adjournments in the past month, during which Kanu who disengaged his legal team and opted to represent himself maintained that there was “no valid charge” against him.

The Nigerian government has been prosecuting Kanu on seven terrorism-related charges since 2015, linked to his alleged secessionist campaign for an independent Biafran state. He has consistently denied all wrongdoing.

The prosecution closed its case in June after calling five witnesses. Kanu’s subsequent no-case submission was dismissed in September, with the court ruling that he had a case to answer.

Despite being urged by the judge to prepare for his defence, Kanu insisted that the charges were invalid because they were based on a repealed version of the terrorism law.

He told the court he needed to consult with his legal consultants Nnaemeka Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Maxwell Okpara and Mandela Umegborogu before proceeding, but the court ultimately foreclosed the defence after repeated delays.

The judgment is now scheduled for 20 November.

Court Sets November 20 for Judgment in Nnamdi Kanu’s Terrorism Trial
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 20 for judgment in the terrorism trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

The judge announced the date on Friday after Kanu failed to open his defence, despite being granted six days to do so. Justice Omotosho ruled that since the defendant did not utilise the opportunity to defend himself, he could not claim denial of his constitutional right to a fair hearing.

Earlier, the court had given Kanu until November 5 to begin his defence or forfeit the right. The judge had warned that failure to proceed would be deemed a waiver.

During the proceedings, Kanu—who is representing himself—told the court that he would not enter any defence, insisting there were no valid charges against him. He demanded his immediate release, arguing that his continued trial was unlawful.

Prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) objected to Kanu’s fresh filings, saying they were not properly submitted and accused him of attempting to delay the case. He urged the court to treat the documents as Kanu’s final written address and proceed to judgment.

In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that Kanu’s documents would be considered at judgment, noting that since Kanu is not a lawyer, he should be allowed to seek legal assistance if necessary.

You’ve Last Chance To defend Yourself, Court Tells Kanu; Sowore Still Wanted CP.

ABUJA–The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, on Wednesday, said it would give the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, one last opportunity to defend the seven-count terrorism charge the Federal Government entered against him.

Consequently, trial Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case till November 7 for the defendant to open his defence as he was previously ordered to do by the court.

The trial judge warned that he would foreclose Kanu’s right should he fail to enter his defence on the next adjourned date.

He said the decision was anchored on tenets of justice that required that the defendant should be granted sufficient opportunity to exonerate himself.

“We had adjourned till today for the defendant to put in his defence or be deemed closed.

But, I am bound to give him another opportunity to put in his defence.

“If he does not, I will deem him closed. I know that he is an Economist and not a lawyer.

“I will give the last opportunity to the defendant to put in his defence, failure of which he would be deemed closed,” Justice Omotosho held.

Court Gives Nnamdi Kanu 24 Hours to Finalise Defence in Terrorism Trial

Judge James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered Biafra agitator, Nnamdi Kanu, to decide within 24 hours whether he will open his defence in the terrorism case filed against him by the Federal Government.

The judge, who adjourned proceedings to Wednesday, insisted that Mr. Kanu must either present his defence or formally waive his right to do so. He again advised the IPOB leader to engage lawyers experienced in criminal law or appoint counsel willing to take up the case on his behalf.

Mr. Kanu, however, maintained his position that the terrorism charges were unlawful, arguing that no valid case had been instituted against him.

Tuesday’s session marks yet another development in the prolonged legal back-and-forth over Mr. Kanu’s defence strategy. The judge has repeatedly shifted hearing dates in recent weeks to allow him the opportunity to clarify his stance and proceed with his defence.

PDP National convention: Nobody will use me, my loyalists Wike blows hot.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has warned against being used as a bargaining tool for negotiation in the Peoples Democratic Party’s ongoing crisis.
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‎Wike issued the warning while expressing concerns over the internal destruction of the party and emphasized the need for a return to due process.
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‎The Minister issued the warning in Abuja on Friday during a meeting with the Concerned PDP Stakeholders after the Abuja Federal High Court ruling that halted the November national convention scheduled for Ibadan, Oyo State.
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‎During the meeting, Wike warned against any attempt to hijack the PDP’s leadership.
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‎“Let me be clear, nobody, and I mean nobody, will use us to negotiate for anything. We are part of this party; we have sacrificed for it. But we will not allow anybody to trade us off for personal gain.
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‎“Those of us fighting today are not doing so for ourselves. We are doing it because we want the PDP to stand for something, for due process, fairness, and respect for law,” he said.

Justice James Omotosho had barred the PDP from holding its national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The judge delivered the judgment while upholding a case brought by three aggrieved PDP members.

Omotosho directed the PDP to revisit and rectify its internal issues, emphasizing the need for the party to send the mandatory 21-day notice before proceeding with the convention.

KANU DECLINES TO ENTER DEFENCE, INSISTS NO CASE AGAINST HIM.

The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has refused to open his defence in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences, insisting that there is no valid case against him.

Kanu had earlier indicated plans to call witnesses and even applied for a witness summons, requesting additional time to review his case file. However, at the resumed hearing, he informed the court that after studying the file, he found no legitimate charge warranting a defence.

He told the court that he believes the entire trial process is unlawful, hence there is no need to proceed with any defence.

Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the case, directed Kanu to file a written response detailing his stance and serve it on the prosecution. The judge also advised him to consult criminal law experts on the possible legal consequences of his decision.

The case was subsequently adjourned until November 4th, 5th, and 6th for the adoption of final written addresses, depending on whether the court agrees that the evidence and charges so far have failed to establish a case against the defendant — or for Kanu to reconsider and enter his defence.

The Global Defence Consortium representing IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu has accused the Federal High Court in Abuja and Justice James Omotosho of bias and denial of fair hearing following alleged irregularities during Friday’s court session.

According to a statement by Barrister Onyedikachi Ifedi, Kanu informed the court that his legal team was dismissed only a day earlier and that he could not access his legal files due to DSS restrictions. His request for more time to review the files, the defence argued, was a constitutional right under Section 36(6)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, not a delay tactic.

Kanu also sought to extend his legal and medical consultations from three to five days per week—a request the court granted, though the judge claimed Kanu had wasted earlier opportunities. The defence disputed this, saying it was unfair to force a defendant in a capital case to proceed after only “three hours” of consultation.

The statement further alleged that the DSS continues to bug Kanu’s conversations with his lawyers, violating constitutional provisions and international legal standards. It added that Justice Omotosho’s actions—such as vacating the courtroom during consultations and adjourning when Kanu requested court records—proved a breach of fair hearing and contempt for open justice.

The defence also noted that its applications to bring witnesses from the U.S., Kenya, the U.K., and Ethiopia remain unaddressed, describing it as a deliberate attempt to frustrate the defence.

“These are the facts from today’s proceedings. Don’t let them feed you lies,” the defence concluded.