The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, is fit to stand trial.
The independent medical panel, which was established by the NMA President at the court’s request, submitted its findings on Thursday. The report concluded that Mr. Kanu’s illness “does not pose any immediate danger to his life” and that he is healthy enough to face the terrorism charges against him.
The court had ordered the independent health assessment two weeks ago after receiving conflicting medical reports from the prosecution and the defence teams.
Trial to proceed at DSS facility
Justice James Omotosho accepted the NMA’s findings, ruling that the Department of State Services (DSS) medical facility is adequate to manage Mr. Kanu’s health needs.
The judge has subsequently granted the defence team six consecutive days, starting from October 23, to open and close its case. The trial is set to continue until the end of the month.
In a move to address the defence team’s fears that their discussions might be monitored, the court also granted an oral application allowing Mr. Kanu to hold a private consultation with his lawyers within the courtroom premises on October 22, ahead of the trial resumption.
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