In a stunning legal twist, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to assemble an independent panel of top medical experts to evaluate the health condition and trial fitness of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the ruling on Friday, directed the NMA president to form an investigative committee of between eight and ten medical professionals to assess Mr. Kanu’s health, recommend appropriate treatment facilities, and determine whether he is medically fit to continue standing trial.
The panel is also mandated to inspect the State Security Service (SSS) detention facility in Abuja to determine if it meets the standards for Mr. Kanu’s medical care. Additionally, the committee must review his request to be moved to the National Hospital, Abuja, for urgent medical attention if necessary.
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In his ruling, Justice Omotosho specified that the Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital, or an appointed representative, must be part of the panel. The panel’s findings—signed by both its chairman and secretary—must be submitted to the court within eight days.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in SSS custody since June 2021, facing terrorism and treasonable felony charges. The IPOB leader denies all accusations, including claims of inciting violence and pursuing secession of Nigeria’s Southeast and parts of neighboring states to form a sovereign nation. His trial, which began in 2015, resumed in 2025 under Justice Omotosho’s watch.
During Friday’s hearing, Mr. Kanu’s lead counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Onyechi Ikpeazu, argued that a recent medical evaluation by a professor of medicine supported his client’s request for treatment at the National Hospital. He maintained that the SSS had no lawful basis to block access to the facility, pointing out that it is owned by the federal government.
Prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) opposed the application, alleging that Mr. Kanu altered his medication without informing the SSS medical team, which has overseen his care for four years.
The court’s directive has intensified public attention on Mr. Kanu’s health as the IPOB leader continues to battle serious charges. Legal observers say the panel’s findings could shape the next phase of the high-profile trial.
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