The Federal High Court in Abuja has declined the bail application for Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Instead, the trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako, has opted for an accelerated hearing in the case. Kanu's counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, had requested bail, citing Kanu's deteriorating health and the threat to his life from continued detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Ejimakor argued that Kanu's prolonged incarceration would hinder his ability to mount a proper defence. However, the Federal Government's counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), countered this, urging the court to dismiss the bail application and proceed with an accelerated hearing. Awomolo pointed out that the DSS could provide adequate medical care for Kanu and raised concerns about Kanu's previous bail violation.
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 prioritize an expedited trial underscores the gravity of the charges against Kanu and the need for a swift resolution to the case.
