The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has strongly condemned the Federal Government’s move to relocate Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, to the Sokoto State Correctional Centre.
Nnamdi Kanu, who was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday for terrorism-related charges, has been transferred to Sokoto prison.
Reacting, the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), through its President General, Goodluck Ibem, expressed concern on Saturday that Kanu’s life could be at risk “in a region currently volatile and prone to terrorist activities.”
The coalition noted that parts of Nigeria’s North West, including Sokoto State, “have faced persistent threats from terrorist groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, and other insurgent factions.”
They added that “the security situation in these areas remains fragile, with frequent attacks on high-profile individuals and security personnel. Transferring Nnamdi Kanu to such a region is extremely risky and could endanger both his life and national security.”
He should be relocated to Abuja or another secure facility with strong inmate protection and a manageable threat environment. Before any transfer, a transparent security risk assessment should be conducted to ensure his safety and safeguard his constitutional rights.
We stress that Nnamdi Kanu’s safety, the integrity of the justice system, and national security must remain uncompromised. Authorities are urged to exercise sound judgment, prioritize lives and security, and provide clear communication to the public regarding this issue.”