Justice James Omotosho denied Nnamdi Kanu’s ex parte request for a prison transfer, ruling that the federal government must be formally notified and given a chance to respond before the matter resumes in January 2026.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has declined Nnamdi Kanu’s ex parte motion seeking a transfer from the Sokoto Correctional Facility to a custodial center within the court’s jurisdiction. Justice James Omotosho ruled that the application could not be granted without hearing from the other side, stating that the respondents “ought to be put on notice to respond appropriately in the interest of justice.” Consequently, the judge struck out the relief seeking to force an immediate transfer.
During the proceedings, Kanu’s counsel from the Legal Aid Council, Demdoo Asan, conceded that “the respondents have the right to be heard” and agreed that the government and Correctional Service must be served. Justice Omotosho also pointed out procedural errors regarding Kanu’s notice of appeal, noting it was filed dates before the relevant judgment was delivered. The court adjourned the case until January 27, 2026, to enable the applicant to serve the necessary parties.