Fresh Twist In Kanu’s Case As Court Considers Motion For Medical Transfer

The Federal High Court in Abuja will on Monday hear a motion filed by the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, seeking his transfer to the National Hospital for urgent medical care.

The application, filed by his counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), is based on claims that Kanu’s health has deteriorated while in custody, with medical experts recommending immediate intervention.

Vacation judge, Justice Musa Liman, had earlier granted leave for the motion to be entertained during the court’s recess, noting: “The right to health is as important as the right to life. I therefore agree that this matter can be heard by the vacation court.”

The motion, dated September 2 and filed on September 3, is marked FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015—the same case in which Kanu is standing trial before Justice James Omotosho on terrorism-related charges.

In his application, Agabi recalled that Kanu had applied for bail on May 19, but the request was not heard before the court’s annual vacation. He said the IPOB leader’s condition has since worsened, making comprehensive medical evaluation necessary.

According to Agabi, examinations revealed pancreatic and liver complications, a lump beneath his armpit, and critically low potassium levels. Doctors reportedly recommended his transfer to the National Hospital as an interim measure to prevent further health decline.

He also noted that a letter from the medical team to the Director-General of the DSS urging Kanu’s relocation had received no response.

Supporting the motion, Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, confirmed that the IPOB leader had complained of “weakness and persistent body pains.” He cited the findings of Emeritus Professor Austin A.C. Agaji, who diagnosed liver and kidney concerns, dangerously low potassium, and an armpit swelling requiring urgent attention.

Agabi argued that approving the application would not prejudice the DSS, stressing that the move was aimed solely at preventing further deterioration of Kanu’s health.

The motion will be heard on Monday, when the court is expected to rule on whether Kanu should be moved from DSS custody to the National Hospital for treatment.