The Federal High Court in Abuja is set to hear a motion on Monday filed by Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seeking his transfer to the National Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
According to Naija News, Kanu’s lawyer, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), claims that Kanu’s health has significantly deteriorated while in detention, with medical professionals recommending immediate intervention.
Vacation judge, Justice Musa Liman, previously granted permission for the motion to be heard during the court’s recess, emphasizing the importance of health rights alongside the right to life.
The motion, dated September 2 and filed on September 3, is associated with case number FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015, where Kanu is currently facing terrorism-related charges before Justice James Omotosho.
Agabi informed the court that Kanu had previously sought bail on May 19, but the request could not be addressed before the court’s annual vacation. He noted that Kanu’s health has since worsened, requiring extensive medical examination.
“The examination revealed issues with his pancreas and liver, an emerging lump underneath his armpit, and dangerously low levels of potassium,” Agabi stated. “The doctors have recommended that he be moved to the National Hospital as an interim measure to forestall further decline.”
Additionally, Agabi mentioned that a letter from Kanu’s medical team to the Director-General of the DSS recommending his transfer had gone unanswered.
Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, supported these claims in an affidavit, stating that the IPOB leader has been experiencing “weakness and pains in his body.” He reported that a diagnosis conducted in August revealed liver and kidney complications, low potassium levels, and a swelling in his armpit that requires urgent attention.
Agabi argued that granting the application would not harm the interests of the Department of State Services, which is the complainant in the case. He asserted that the court has the jurisdiction to hear and grant the requested relief to prevent further deterioration of Kanu’s health.
The court is expected to make a decision on whether Kanu should be transferred from DSS custody for necessary medical attention during the hearing on Monday.
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