The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu’s illness is not life-threatening, paving way for his trial to proceed.
The medical panel appointed by the NMA President concluded a court-ordered health assessment of Kanu and reported that his condition poses no immediate danger to his life.
This development follows conflicting medical reports presented earlier by the defence and prosecution teams. Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the trial, directed the independent medical assessment about two weeks ago amid concerns over Kanu’s health.
Kanu faces charges related to alleged terrorism brought by the Federal Government. According to the report submitted on October 13 and partly read in court on Thursday, the NMA confirmed that Kanu is medically fit to stand trial.
Justice Omotosho, satisfied with these findings and in the absence of opposition from legal counsels, ruled that proceedings could continue.The judge also scheduled six consecutive days from October 23 for Kanu to open and close his defence.
Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), requested a private consultation between the defendant and his legal team outside the Department of State Services (DSS) premises, fearing their conversations might be monitored or recorded.
Our discussions with Mr. Kanu are critical and must be protected from any external interference – Chief Agabi
Justice Omotosho approved the meeting to be held privately in the courtroom, with only Kanu and his lawyers present. This confidential session is set for the morning of October 22, just before the trial resumes.
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