The Federal High Court in Abuja has declined to accept Prince Emmanuel Kanu’s appearance on behalf of his brother, Nnamdi Kanu, ruling that he is not a qualified legal practitioner.

The decision was delivered on Thursday by Justice James Omotosho, who explained that only a licensed lawyer can represent the detained IPOB leader in court.

Nnamdi Kanu, who was recently convicted and handed a life sentence, filed a fresh motion seeking to be transferred to Sokoto prison. His brother, Emmanuel, brought the application before the court, noting that Nnamdi Kanu could not be physically present to move the motion and urging the court to hear it in his absence.

Kanu’s argument in the application stated that his transfer to a correctional facility closer to Abuja would enable him to properly pursue his appeal.

However, once the case was called, Justice Omotosho made it clear that Emmanuel could not represent the IPOB leader.

“This ex parte motion cannot be moved on the convict’s behalf because you are not a legal practitioner,” the judge said.

He further emphasized that legal representation must come from a certified lawyer—not a family member.

“When I said representation, it is not his father, brother, sister or relations I meant. I mean his counsel.”

Justice Omotosho advised him to hire a qualified lawyer or seek help from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, which is empowered by law to represent individuals who cannot secure legal services.

According to the judge, only a solicitor or advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria can argue such motions.

“You cannot represent a human being when you are not a lawyer; you can only represent a corporate body,” he added.

After understanding the court’s position, Emmanuel requested a new hearing date. The judge then adjourned the motion to December 8.