The Federal High Court in Abuja has declined the bail application made by Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Instead, the trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako, has opted to proceed with an accelerated hearing in the case.
During the proceedings, counsel for Nnamdi Kanu, Alloy Ejimakor, had advocated for bail, citing Kanu’s deteriorating health condition and asserting that his continued detention posed a threat to his life. Ejimakor emphasized that Kanu’s ability to mount a strong defense would be compromised if he remained incarcerated.
On the other hand, the Federal Government’s counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), opposed the bail application, urging the court to dismiss it and proceed with an accelerated hearing. Awomolo pointed out that the Department of State Services (DSS) had adequate medical facilities to attend to Kanu’s health needs. Additionally, he highlighted Kanu’s previous breach of bail conditions, emphasizing that Kanu failed to commit to not absconding if granted bail.
Nnamdi Kanu was previously granted bail on health grounds in April 2017 after spending 18 months in detention. However, he fled the country following a military raid on his residence in September 2017.
The court’s decision to deny bail and opt for an accelerated hearing underscores the gravity of the charges against Kanu and the need for expeditious legal proceedings.