The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has confirmed that the health condition of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is not life-threatening and that he is medically fit to stand trial.
The report was presented on Thursday before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, following an order issued by the judge on September 26 directing the NMA to assess Kanu’s health.
Kanu had earlier sought to be transferred from the Department of State Services (DSS) custody to the National Hospital in Abuja, alleging that his health had deteriorated. He cited reports of liver and pancreatic complications, a lump under his armpit, and dangerously low potassium levels.
However, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), opposed the application, arguing that Kanu had been receiving adequate medical attention while in detention.
During Thursday’s proceedings, Awomolo informed the court that the NMA report, dated October 13, had been filed and served on the defence. Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), confirmed receipt of the document.
Reading from the report, Justice Omotosho noted that the NMA panel found Kanu’s condition stable and declared him fit to continue his trial. He said the court was satisfied with the findings, having received no objections from either side.
The judge announced plans to fix six consecutive dates for the defence to open and close its case.
Agabi requested that the defendant be brought to court for a private consultation with his legal team, expressing concern about possible eavesdropping if the meeting took place at the DSS facility.
Granting the request, Justice Omotosho scheduled Wednesday, October 22, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., for Kanu and his lawyers to meet privately in court.
