Tension Grips Sokoto as Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention Heightens Fear and Uncertainty

Tension is steadily rising across Sokoto metropolis as residents adjust to the presence of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who is currently serving his sentence at the Sokoto Central Correctional Centre. The development has unsettled households, businesses, transport operators and local communities, particularly around Yar Marina, where the prison is located.

The facility sits just minutes away from the Sultan’s Palace and close to the administrative headquarters of Sokoto North Local Government, a proximity that many residents believe has amplified public anxiety. For many locals, this is not the first time the city has hosted a high-profile inmate, but the scale of attention and security surrounding Kanu’s detention has created a different atmosphere entirely.

According to Kabiru Mohammed Gobirawa, a veteran journalist in the state, Sokoto last experienced a similar situation decades ago when the former Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Colonel Peter Obasa (retd.), served his sentence at the same facility. He noted, however, that while Obasa’s case attracted attention, it did not generate the volume of visitors, security build-up and national focus now seen around Kanu’s detention.

Residents say the character of Yar Marina changed almost overnight after the transfer. Heavily armed security checkpoints appeared, armed patrols increased and movement around the facility became more controlled. The presence of Police Zone 10 and the Assistant Inspector General of Police office in the same area has further intensified the security footprint.

Older scars of insecurity also linger in the neighbourhood, including the memory of the 2016 bomb blast that killed a police officer near the AIG office and earlier attempts by insurgent elements to establish a foothold in parts of the state. These past incidents have made the current situation more psychologically unsettling for residents.

Although daily life continues, many residents describe an atmosphere of unease that lies beneath the surface. Markets still open, schools still function and traffic flows as usual, but conversations are hushed and movements are more cautious, especially at night. Traders admit they are working, but with a heightened sense of vigilance.

Visits to the correctional centre have further fuelled public tension. The recent visit by Abia State Governor Alex Otti drew national attention and intensified security presence in the area. Each high-profile visit, residents say, doubles the number of security operatives and deepens local anxiety.

Last Sunday, Kanu received a visit from his legal team led by Dr Maxwell Opara. The legal team was seen leaving the facility with documents believed to be related to his appeal. His lawyers have publicly questioned the rationale behind his transfer to Sokoto, arguing that it creates logistical challenges for legal access and family contact.

Correctional officials have remained largely silent, confirming only that Kanu is being held under strict monitoring and that access to the facility is tightly controlled. Journalists and members of the public are barred from approaching certain sections of the area, with even local residents subjected to routine security screening.

The Sokoto State Government has also addressed rumours surrounding the visit, firmly denying claims that Governor Ahmed Aliyu accompanied Governor Alex Otti to the custodial centre. According to an official statement, Governor Aliyu was out of the country in Saudi Arabia at the time, performing religious rites. The government stressed that the visiting governor was received by designated officials in line with protocol and that the state remains committed to peace, unity and stability.

Today, Sokoto moves forward under a cloud of tension. Businesses operate, families carry on and streets remain busy, but the mood has shifted. Security is heavy, uncertainty lingers, and residents remain watchful, unsure of how long this uneasy calm will last.