He Is In High Spirits, Says Kanu’s Lawyer After Visiting Sokoto Prison

Dr. Maxwell Opara, one of the lawyers representing the convicted leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, visited him on Sunday at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, accompanied by four other associates.

Daily Trust correspondent observed the group leaving the facility with several large documents.

Access to the prison area was noticeably restricted, with visitors kept at a distance until security clearance was granted.

Despite the heavy security presence around the correctional facility, residents of the surrounding community continued their daily activities.

Shops remained open, transportation continued as usual, and many locals seemed largely unconcerned by Kanu’s presence.

Speaking after the visit, Opara confirmed that Kanu remained in high spirits despite his circumstances.

He disclosed that efforts were underway to secure Kanu’s return to Abuja, where he is expected to file his appeal.

“As I speak to you, he is preparing his appeal personally. We are exploring ways to bring him back to Abuja so he can file it, because time is running.

“We just met with him, and although he is in good spirits, the urgency of filing the appeal cannot be overstated.”

Opara questioned the rationale behind Kanu’s transfer to Sokoto, arguing that it complicates the appeal process.

“On what basis was he brought to Sokoto? I don’t understand the reason. His appeal is in Abuja,” he said.

“The judgment was delivered on Thursday, and now Friday, Saturday, and Sunday have passed with no progress. This is very unfortunate.”

Daily Trust had reported how a Federal High Court in Abuja, on Thursday, sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment for terrorism and ordered his remand in protective custody.

While delivering the judgement, Justice James Omotosho had said the secret police could move Kanu to any correctional facility within the country.

The Department of State Services (DSS) later moved the IPOB leader to the Nigerian Custodial Centre in Sokoto. (Daily trust)