A medical panel set up by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has concluded that the health condition of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is not life-threatening, declaring him fit to stand trial on terrorism-related charges.
The finding followed an order by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, who directed the NMA to conduct an independent medical evaluation after conflicting reports from medical experts representing both the prosecution and the defence.
In the panel’s report, submitted to the court on October 13 by prosecution counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) and partly read during Thursday’s proceedings, the doctors stated that while Kanu has certain health concerns, they are not severe enough to hinder his ability to participate in his ongoing trial.
Based on the NMA’s assessment and without any objection from either side, Justice Omotosho ruled that the trial should proceed, scheduling six consecutive days — from October 23 to 28, 2025 — for Kanu to open and close his defence.
The judge also granted an application by defence lawyer Kanu Agabi (SAN) allowing Kanu’s legal team to hold a private consultation session with him outside the Department of State Services (DSS) premises, following concerns that discussions within DSS facilities might be monitored.
By court order, the confidential meeting will take place on October 22, between 9 a.m. and 12 noon, inside the courtroom, with only Kanu and his lawyers present.
Kanu, who faces terrorism and separatism charges linked to his leadership of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in DSS custody since his re-arrest in 2021. His defence team maintains that his prolonged detention and health issues violate his fundamental rights.
