“His Ailment Not Life-Threatening” – NMA Declares Nnamdi Kanu Fit To Stand Trial

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has told the Federal High Court in Abuja that the health condition of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is not life-threatening.

The statement came after a medical panel set up by the NMA president completed an independent health assessment of Kanu, as ordered by the court.

The panel said that its findings showed that Nnamdi Kanu is medically fit to stand trial.

Two weeks earlier, Justice James Omotosho had directed the NMA to conduct an independent examination to clarify conflicting medical reports submitted by Kanu’s defence team and the prosecution.

Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing trial on charges related to alleged terrorism brought against him by the Federal Government.

In its report submitted on October 13 and partially read in court by the prosecution, led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), the NMA stated that while Kanu has some health issues, none of them pose an immediate threat to his life confirmed that he is fit to stand trial.

After reviewing the findings, and with no objections from either side, Justice Omotosho ruled that the court was satisfied with the medical conclusions and that the case should proceed.

The judge then scheduled six consecutive hearing days, starting from October 23, for Kanu to present and conclude his defence.

Justice Omotosho also granted a request by Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), for a private meeting between Kanu and his legal team outside the Department of State Services (DSS) premises.

The defence had expressed concern that their discussions with Kanu might be monitored or recorded by DSS officials.

The court approved that the meeting take place inside the courtroom, with only Kanu and his lawyers present.

It is set for October 22 between 9 a.m. and 12 noon, ahead of the continuation of his trial the next day.

KanyiDaily recalls that activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore recently announced October 20 as the date for a protest march calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.