The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) says it is yet to ascertain the health status of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The presiding judge, James Omotosho, ordered the NMA president to form an investigating panel to determine the defendant’s health status in a September 26 ruling.
Omotosho gave the directive while ruling on an application seeking to transfer Nnamdi Kanu from the Department of State Services (DSS) custody to the National Hospital in the federal capital territory (FCT) for treatment.
Citing medical records showing liver and pancreatic issues, a tumour under his armpit, and dangerously low potassium levels, the IPOB leader asserted that his health had declined while he was in custody.
However, the prosecution had challenged the application, claiming that Nnamdi Kanu had received sufficient treatment while in custody from the federal government.
In his ruling, the judge said: “The right to life and good health of the defendant remains paramount, hence an order of this court is made directing the president of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) to constitute an investigative panel of between eight and 10 members to consider whether the defendant is truly suffering from the medical issues, whether the medical facility of the DSS is well-equipped to handle the medical issues of the defendant.”
The National Hospital’s top medical director or his representative must be on the panel, the court further ordered.
The prosecution’s attorney, Suraj Sa’ada, informed the court during Wednesday’s resumed proceedings that the medical panel has not yet completed its assignment.
According to Sa’ada, the panel should be given enough time because they intend to perform a comprehensive job.
He recommended that the panel be given an additional week to complete its assignment.
