By DAYO ADESULU
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has alleged that the Federal Government has secretly transferred the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to Sokoto Prison under circumstances he described as “dangerous and politically motivated.” Sowore made the claim in a statement posted on his official Facebook page, warning that the relocation could put Kanu’s life at serious risk.
Sowore: “Kanu Has Already Been Moved to Sokoto Prison”
In the strongly worded statement, Sowore accused the Tinubu administration of orchestrating a covert plan to relocate Kanu to a prison facility far from the public eye and his support base. According to him, the move was concluded secretly, with authorities allegedly acting with unusual speed to keep the transfer under wraps.
He wrote that the “Tinubu regime has secretly transferred Nnamdi Kanu to Sokoto Prison,” adding that the decision was not accidental or administrative but part of a broader agenda to isolate the separatist leader.
Sowore insisted that as of Friday morning, he had “confirmed” Kanu’s new location, explaining that the transfer was completed swiftly to prevent public interference or protests.
Why Kanu Was Not Returned to Kuje — Sowore Gives Reasons
The activist claimed that senior government officials refused to return Kanu to Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja because they believed doing so would elevate his influence. According to him, members of the administration had argued that placing Kanu in Kuje would turn the facility into a “pilgrimage centre” for his supporters across the country.
Sowore quoted unnamed officials as allegedly saying that Kanu would “become a king” if kept in Kuje, as “Igbo people” and other supporters would troop there to show solidarity. He said this fear was the main motivation behind the decision to keep Kanu as far away from Abuja as possible.
The activist added that the Sokoto detention facility, known for its tough conditions, was selected deliberately to keep Kanu in a place where he would remain “isolated and vulnerable.”
“A Dark Agenda”: Sowore Accuses FG of Using Psychological Tactics
Sowore also accused government allies of spreading what he called a “false narrative of renewed hope” regarding Kanu’s case in order to calm public tension. He described it as a psychological tactic intended to distract supporters and weaken public pressure.
He alleged that the administration’s strategy was to keep Kanu’s supporters believing that a political solution was still possible, while quietly implementing actions that worsened his situation.
According to him, the ultimate aim is to “keep your hopes alive just long enough for him to die in custody.”
He stressed that contrary to speculation about political bargaining or electoral compromises, the current leadership had “no intention of releasing him.”
“His Greatest Enemies Are From His Own Region”
In one of the most controversial parts of his statement, Sowore suggested that some politicians from the South-East were “cooperating” with the Federal Government in order to suppress Kanu’s influence.
He claimed these leaders considered Kanu a threat due to the strong bond he shares with his supporters. Sowore alleged that they preferred Kanu “silenced permanently,” adding that these interests contributed to efforts to weaken past nationwide protests calling for Kanu’s release.
He pointed specifically to the alleged sabotage of the #FreeNnamdiKanuNOW protest, which he said was met with coordinated resistance from powerful persons who feared Kanu’s political relevance.
Warning to Supporters
Sowore concluded his statement with a stern warning, cautioning Nigerians not to underestimate the implications of the transfer. He reiterated that he had previously warned the public about the government’s plans and urged citizens to remain alert.
“Do not say I didn’t warn you,” he said, adding the hashtag #RevolutionNow.
What This Means for the Nnamdi Kanu Case
The alleged transfer, if confirmed officially, would mark one of the most significant developments in Kanu’s prolonged detention. It could heighten tensions, trigger renewed protests across the country, and potentially complicate ongoing legal and political negotiations surrounding his release.
Sowore’s claims add a new layer of controversy to the already sensitive case, especially given the concerns about deteriorating health, legal stalemates, and human rights implications.
As of the time of this report, the Federal Government and the Nigerian Correctional Service have not issued any official statement regarding the alleged transfer of Nnamdi Kanu to Sokoto Prison.
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