A Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday declined to hear an application by detained Biafra 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, sitting as a vacation judge, ruled that his tenure in that capacity ended the same day, leaving him without jurisdiction to entertain the matter. He ordered that the case file be returned to the appropriate court for reassignment.
Kanu’s lawyer, Uchenna Njoku, requested an adjournment to enable the defence to respond to the Federal Government’s 37-paragraph counter-affidavit. The request was not opposed by prosecution counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN.
Although refusing to hear the application, Justice Liman assured that he would recommend a speedy hearing once the matter is reassigned, citing concerns raised about Kanu’s health.
Kanu, who is standing trial on terrorism charges, has alleged that his health is deteriorating in DSS custody. Medical reports before the court indicate complications with his liver, pancreas, and kidneys, in addition to low potassium levels and a painful lump under his armpit. Doctors reportedly recommended his immediate transfer to the National Hospital.
Lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, argued that previous bail and medical applications had been stalled by court vacations and accused the DSS of ignoring doctors’ advice. Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel, also claimed his condition was worsening and required urgent specialist care.
