Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to October 16, due to the delay in the submission of a court-ordered medical report.
The adjournment followed the inability of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to present its findings on Kanu’s health status, as earlier directed by the court.
Court Awaits Nnamdi Kanu Health Assessment Report
At a previous hearing, Justice Omotosho had ordered the NMA President to constitute a medical board to assess the defendant’s health, following claims of deteriorating health in DSS custody. The court tasked the board with evaluating whether the medical facilities at the DSS headquarters are sufficient for his treatment or if he should be transferred to a private ward at the National Hospital.
The medical board’s report is also expected to determine if Kanu is medically fit to stand trial.
At Wednesday’s proceedings, Suraj S’aad, counsel to the Federal Government, informed the court that the medical team had communicated that their report was not yet ready for submission. He therefore applied for a short adjournment to enable the board to conclude its findings.
With no objection from the defence, Justice Omotosho granted the request and fixed October 16, 2025, as the new date for continuation of trial and submission of the medical report.
Nnamdi Kanu Facing Seven-Count Terrorism Charge
Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism and incitement, filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) on behalf of the Federal Government.
On September 26, the court rejected a no-case submission filed by Kanu’s legal team, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case. However, Justice Omotosho ruled that the Federal Government had presented enough evidence to warrant Kanu entering his defence.
“The prosecution has established a case against the defendant that requires him to enter his defence,” the judge stated.
He added that the evidence and exhibits tendered by the prosecution raised serious allegations of involvement in terrorist activities, and also emphasized Kanu’s right to a fair hearing, including the opportunity to present evidence concerning his claims of extraordinary rendition.
