Reports have revealed that inmates of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sokoto, have announced leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as their president.
Kanu was recently sentenced to life imprisonment by Justice James Omotosho after he was found guilty on all seven counts of terrorism offences.
The charges related to his secessionist agitations, acts of terrorism, membership of a proscribed group, killing of security operatives, destruction of public property, concealment, and the importation of an unregistered radio transmitter.
The IPOB leader, who had been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja while his protracted trial lasted, was moved to Sokoto Prisons after he was sentenced to life jail.
Daily Sun gathered that drama erupted upon his arrival inside Sokoto Prison as inmates unanimously declared him the “Prison President.”
– He Is In High Spirits, Says Lawyer After Visiting Sokoto Prison
Dr. Maxwell Opara, one of the lawyers representing Kanu, visited him on Sunday at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, accompanied by four other associates.
Our 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.
