The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday adjourned the trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to October 16, following the Nigerian Medical Association’s (NMA) inability to present its court ordered report on his health condition.
Justice James Omotosho postponed the proceedings after the Department of State Services (DSS) counsel, Suraj S’aad (SAN), informed the court that the NMA’s medical board had yet to finalise and submit its findings as directed.
The court had earlier ordered the NMA to conduct an independent medical examination to determine whether Kanu’s health could be adequately managed at the DSS medical facility or if he should be moved to the National Hospital, Abuja, for further treatment.
At the previous sitting, Kanu’s counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), claimed his client’s health was deteriorating, while DSS counsel, Awomolo Adegboyega (SAN), maintained that the DSS clinic could handle his condition.
Justice Omotosho subsequently directed the NMA President to assemble a panel of experts across medical specialties to assess Kanu’s fitness to stand trial and the adequacy of his current medical care.
Following the NMA’s delay, both parties agreed to the DSS counsel’s request for a one week adjournment. The judge then fixed October 16 for the presentation of the medical report and further proceedings.
“The court is adjourned to 16 October for the report of the Nigerian Medical Association,” Justice Omotosho ruled.
Kanu is facing terrorism related charges brought by the Federal Government.