Alleged Terrorism: Court adjourns Nnamdi Kanu’s trial over pending medical report

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, on terrorism-related charges to October 16.

The adjournment followed the failure of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to present its report on Kanu’s health condition as earlier ordered by the court.

At the previous sitting, Justice Omotosho had directed the NMA President to set up a medical board to assess Kanu’s health, determine whether the Department of State Services (DSS) facility was adequate for his care, and advise if he should be transferred to a private ward at the National Hospital. The report was also expected to indicate whether Kanu is fit to continue his trial.

During Tuesday’s proceedings, counsel for the Federal Government, Suraj S’aad, informed the court that the medical board had communicated that the report was not ready. He therefore sought a one-week adjournment to allow the board to conclude its findings.

With no objections raised, Justice Omotosho granted the request and fixed October 16 for the submission of the report.

Kanu is currently facing a seven-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism activities. On September 26, the court dismissed his no-case submission, ruling that the prosecution had provided sufficient evidence to warrant Kanu entering his defence.

In his ruling, Justice Omotosho stated that the prosecution’s evidence and exhibits raised serious allegations linking Kanu to terrorist acts, which required him to defend himself. The judge added that Kanu must be afforded his constitutional right to a fair hearing and an opportunity to present evidence, particularly concerning his claims of extraordinary rendition.