The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to October 16 following the inability of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to submit his medical examination report as directed.
Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the case, adjourned the matter after being informed that the NMA had not yet completed its assessment of Kanu’s health condition.
The report, which was ordered by the court, is expected to determine whether Kanu should remain in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) or be moved to the National Hospital for treatment.
Earlier, the court had directed the NMA to form a team of medical experts from different regions and specialisations to independently examine Kanu’s health. This decision followed conflicting claims from the DSS and Kanu’s defence team regarding his medical state.
While the DSS legal counsel had maintained that Kanu was receiving adequate care in their facility, the defence argued that his condition was worsening and required urgent treatment outside the DSS detention centre.
The NMA committee was tasked with determining whether the DSS medical facility could provide sufficient care for Kanu, if he should be transferred to the National Hospital, and whether he is fit to continue with his trial.
During the court session, counsel for the DSS, Mr. Suraj S’aad (SAN), explained that the medical board had communicated that its report was not yet ready for submission. The defence counsel, Mr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), did not oppose the request for more time.
Justice Omotosho subsequently granted a one-week adjournment to enable the NMA to finalise and submit its findings. The court is expected to review the medical report on October 16 and decide on the next stage of the case.
Kanu is currently facing trial on charges related to terrorism filed by the Federal Government.