The Nigerian Medical Association has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that the health condition of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra Nnamdi Kanu, is not life-threatening and that he is medically fit to face trial.
The association made this known on Thursday while submitting its medical assessment report to the court, following an independent evaluation ordered by Justice James Omotosho two weeks ago.
Justice Omotosho had directed the NMA to assess Kanu’s health status after conflicting reports were presented by the prosecution and defence teams.
Presenting the report, the prosecution counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), disclosed that the medical panel’s findings, submitted on October 13, indicated that Kanu’s illness does not pose any immediate danger to his life.
“The medical team concluded that the defendant is fit to stand trial,” Awomolo told the court while partly reading from the report.
With no objections raised by either party, Justice Omotosho ruled that the court was satisfied with the medical findings and directed that Kanu’s trial proceed.
“The court is convinced that the defendant is medically fit to continue with his trial,” the judge ruled.
Consequently, the court granted Kanu six consecutive days, starting from October 23, to open and conclude his defence.
Additionally, Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), made an oral application seeking approval for a private meeting between his client and the defence team outside the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Agabi expressed concern that the DSS might monitor or record confidential discussions between Kanu and his lawyers.
Responding to the request, Justice Omotosho approved that the private consultation be held within the courtroom premises.
“The defendant and his legal team are permitted to hold a private meeting in the courtroom between 9 a.m. and 12 noon on October 22,” the judge ruled, adding that no third party would be present.
Kanu is currently facing trial on terrorism-related charges filed by the Federal Government.
