Fresh Twist: Court Sends Nnamdi Kanu’s Motion Back To Chief Judge For Reassignment

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday referred a motion filed by detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, back to the Chief Judge for reassignment.

Kanu, through his legal team, is asking the court to order his immediate transfer to the National Hospital, Abuja, for urgent medical treatment. His lawyers argued that his health has severely deteriorated while in custody.

Justice Musa Liman, in a brief ruling, explained that the court’s annual vacation ended on Monday, leaving insufficient time to conclude the matter. He noted that over 30 cases were listed for the day, yet only six could be heard.

Citing Section 46(8) of the FHC Rules, Liman said any case not determined during vacation must be returned to the Chief Judge for reassignment. While acknowledging the urgency of Kanu’s medical plea, the judge observed that the motion had been filed late.

Counsel to the DSS, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), did not oppose the reassignment, remarking: “Your lordship cannot perform any magic.” He stressed that the matter could have been heard earlier if it had been filed in time.

Kanu’s lawyer, Uchenna Njoku (SAN), admitted their application was filed on September 1 but noted that the DSS only served their counter-affidavit shortly before the hearing. He sought an adjournment to consult with opposing counsel.

Lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), further told the court that medical examinations had revealed troubling conditions involving Kanu’s pancreas, liver, and a lump under his armpit, coupled with critically low potassium levels. Doctors, he said, had formally advised the DSS to transfer him to the National Hospital, but their recommendations were ignored.

Kanu is currently facing terrorism-related charges before Justice James Omotosho, with a pending bail application filed in May that was not heard before the vacation began. His lawyers insist the delay has worsened his confinement and made urgent medical attention unavoidable.

With the case now referred back to the Chief Judge, it will be reassigned to another judge for consideration.