In a recent development at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Nnamdi Kanu’s fresh plea for bail pending the determination of the treasonable felony charge against him has been dismissed. Trial Justice Binta Nyako ordered an expedited hearing of the Federal Government’s seven-count charge against Kanu instead. Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), had requested to be transferred from the Department of State Services (DSS) custody to Kuje prison or, alternatively, to be placed under house arrest. He cited health concerns and his ability to prepare for his defense as reasons for the request.
Kanu’s legal team, led by Mr. Alloy Ejimakor, emphasized his deteriorating health condition, including hypertension and acute heart disease, which they argued necessitated bail on compassionate grounds. However, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, representing the Federal Government, opposed the bail application, citing concerns about Kanu’s potential flight risk and asserting that adequate medical care was being provided to him by the security agency.
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Justice Nyako, in her ruling, noted that a similar bail application had been previously rejected and advised Kanu to appeal that decision rather than filing a fresh request. Kanu, expressing dissatisfaction with the ruling, reiterated his health concerns and criticized the lack of medical facilities at the DSS facility where he is detained. He also voiced allegations of a conspiracy to keep him in custody.
Despite Kanu’s plea for transfer to Kuje prison or house arrest, Justice Nyako declined both options, citing security concerns and past incidents of escapes from Kuje prison. She instructed Kanu to submit his request for house arrest in writing, adjourning the matter until April 17.
Addressing the recurring violence in the South East, Kanu attributed it to his continued detention, vowing to address the issue upon his release. He accused some individuals in government of complicity in the unrest and asserted his authority within IPOB.
Kanu’s detention traces back to his initial arrest in 2015, subsequent escape, and re-arrest in 2021. Despite legal battles and judicial decisions, including a temporary release order from the Court of Appeal, he remains in custody, awaiting trial on the remaining charges. The trial judge expressed frustration at the prolonged proceedings, underscoring the contentious nature of the case since its inception in 2015.