Court Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Fresh Bail Request, Orders Accelerated Hearing

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court Abuja declined to grant bail to Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The court, however, mandated an accelerated hearing for Kanu’s case, which revolves around charges of treasonable felony.

Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his arrest in June 2021, appeared in court on Tuesday.

Justice Nyako emphasized that the court would focus on accelerating the proceedings and directed the prosecution to present its first witness.

Kanu’s counsel, Aloy Ejimakor voiced discontent with the ruling, highlighting the challenges of accessing his client while in DSS custody.

He expressed concerns over restricted communication with Kanu and alleged violations of his client’s rights, citing continuous monitoring of their conversations and Kanu’s prolonged use of the same attire despite court directives.

Ejimakor stressed the importance of consulting with Kanu before proceeding with the trial.

Consequently, the court granted a brief recess to allow the legal team to confer with their client.

During the session, Kanu addressed the court, disclosing his health condition and raising grievances regarding his treatment while in DSS custody.

He told the court that he is suffering from Cognitive Heart Disease and has not been getting the best treatment in the custody of the DSS.

Kanu requested either relocation to Kuje prison or placement under house arrest, yet Justice Nyako denied his appeals.

The court adjourned the case to April 17, 2024, signaling the commencement of the trial while rejecting Kanu’s pleas for bail and alternative custodial arrangements.

KanyiDaily recalls that Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide had disclosed its intention to meet with President Bola Tinubu to advocate for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.