Kanu family rejects Sokoto relocation

The family of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has declared that Kanu will not accept relocation from the Nigeria — Sokoto State Custodial Centre to Nigeria — Abuja without a court order. The family argues that the Nigeria — Sokoto State sentencing is a core issue in his pending appeal before the Nigeria — Nigerian Courts of Appeal, where Kanu is appearing pro se. They contend that the trial judge's finding that Kanu 'hates the North with a passion' and the subsequent order to serve his life sentence in Nigeria — Sokoto State demonstrate judicial bias, forming one of 15 grounds of appeal. The family warns that voluntarily leaving Nigeria — Sokoto State could be construed as abandoning that ground of appeal. They also disclosed that Kanu rejected a British consular offer to facilitate a transfer to Nigeria — Abuja, insisting that any change in custody must come through lawful judicial process. An earlier motion to vary the Nigeria — Sokoto State order was struck out after the judge declined to allow Kanu to attend the hearing. The family urges supporters to respect the legal strategy and allow the Court of Appeal to decide the matter.