The bail application filed by Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was rejected by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday. However, Justice Binta Nyako, the trial judge, granted an accelerated hearing for the case.
Alloy Ejimakor, counsel for Kanu, had previously requested bail for his client, citing Kanu's deteriorating health condition and arguing that his continued detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) posed a threat to his life. Ejimakor also contended that Kanu's prolonged incarceration would hinder his ability to mount a robust defense.
On the contrary, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), representing the Federal Government, urged the court to deny the bail application and proceed with an accelerated hearing. Awomolo pointed out that the DSS could provide adequate medical care for Kanu and emphasized Kanu's previous breach of bail conditions. Kanu had been granted bail on health grounds in April 2017 after spending 18 months in detention, but he fled the country following a military raid on his residence in September 2017.
In essence, while Kanu's bail application was rejected, the court decided to prioritize an expedited trial process, considering the arguments presented by both sides.
