A Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday declined to hear the motion filed by Biafra nation agitator, Nnamdi Kanu, seeking transfer from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to the National Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Justice Musa Liman, who sat as a vacation judge, explained that his tenure in that capacity ended on Monday, leaving him without jurisdiction to entertain the application. He therefore ordered that the case file be returned to the appropriate court for reassignment.
Kanu’s lawyer, Uchenna Njoku, asked for an adjournment to enable the defence team respond to the Federal Government’s 37-paragraph counter-affidavit. The request was not opposed by the prosecution, represented by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN.
Although refusing to hear the matter, Justice Liman assured that he would recommend a speedy hearing of the motion once reassigned, noting the concerns raised over the deteriorating health of the defendant.
Kanu, who is facing terrorism charges, has consistently argued that his health is in grave danger while in DSS custody. Medical reports tendered before the court indicated complications with his liver, pancreas, and kidneys, as well as low potassium levels and a painful lump under his armpit. Doctors recommended that he be immediately transferred to the National Hospital for specialist care.
His lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, told the court that previous bail applications had been frustrated by the vacation period, while also accusing the DSS of refusing to comply with doctors’ advice on Kanu’s medical needs.
Supporting these claims, Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel, said his condition was worsening daily and that urgent medical attention was required to prevent irreparable harm.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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