Nnamdi Kanu, the embattled leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), expressed concerns about a conspiracy for his demise while in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Kanu made these allegations before Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja today, following the court's denial of his bail application.
Kanu, who has been held by the DSS since his extradition in June 2021 on charges of treasonable felony, highlighted his poor treatment by the secret police. His legal counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, had earlier requested his transfer to the Kuje Correctional Center.
During the court proceedings, Kanu, granted permission to address the court, revealed his struggle with cognitive heart disease. He bared his chest to the judge, demonstrating the physical toll of his alleged mistreatment in DSS custody, claiming that the facility's doctors lacked the necessary medication to attend to his health needs.
The IPOB leader accused the DSS of only providing temporary fixes to prevent his demise in custody, suggesting a sinister plot against his life. Despite his plea to be moved to Kuje prison for proper medical attention as mandated by law, Justice Nyako expressed reservations due to security concerns, citing previous escape incidents.
In a visibly distressed state, Kanu emphasized his inability to undergo trial without adequate medical care and proposed alternatives such as house arrest, hinting at the perceived political undertones behind his prosecution. The judge adjourned the case to April 17, 2024, for the commencement of trial, leaving Kanu's health and legal situation uncertain.
