The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is currently facing serious health concerns while in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). According to his special counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu's health condition has deteriorated significantly, and he is experiencing shortness of breath, low blood pressure, and general malaise ¹.
Ejimakor raised the alarm after visiting Kanu in DSS custody, where he was denied access to his doctor. Kanu had requested medical attention from his personal physician, and his legal team submitted a formal request to the DSS to grant access to his doctor. However, when the doctor arrived at the DSS headquarters, he was denied access to Kanu ¹.
Ejimakor expressed concerns about Kanu's health, stating that he is susceptible to potassium deficiency, which affects heart function. This condition was diagnosed by DSS doctors three years ago, but they confessed to lacking the expertise to treat it. Ejimakor believes that this condition is likely the cause of Kanu's current illness, which is serious and potentially deadly ¹.
Kanu's Health Issues
Kanu has been experiencing health issues for some time. In 2017, he was granted bail on health grounds after spending 18 months in detention. He fled the country after an invasion of his residence by the military in September 2017. His trial was put on hold after the Court of Appeal discharged and acquitted him in October 2022 ².
However, the Federal Government appealed against the judgment at the apex court. The Supreme Court ordered the continuation of Kanu's trial in December 2023. Kanu's health issues have continued to be a concern, with his legal team arguing that his continued detention is a threat to his life ².
DSS Denies Access to Doctor
The DSS has denied Kanu access to his doctor, despite his deteriorating health condition. Ejimakor has expressed concerns about the lack of medical facilities at the DSS custody, stating that Kanu's life is at risk. He has urged the court to grant Kanu bail, citing his health condition and the need for him to receive proper medical attention ².
Kanu's legal team has also argued that the DSS is not equipped to handle Kanu's medical condition, and that he requires specialized care. They have requested that Kanu be allowed to wear plain clothes and be given access to his doctor ².
Implications of DSS's Actions
The DSS's denial of access to Kanu's doctor has serious implications for his health and well-being. Kanu's legal team has argued that the DSS is putting his life at risk by denying him access to medical attention. The DSS's actions have also raised concerns about the treatment of detainees in their custody ¹.
The incident has sparked outrage among Kanu's supporters, who are calling for his immediate release. The DSS's actions have also been criticized by human rights groups, who are urging the government to ensure that Kanu receives proper medical attention ³.
Conclusion
Nnamdi Kanu's health condition is a serious concern, and the DSS's denial of access to his doctor is unacceptable. Kanu's legal team has urged the court to grant him bail, citing his health condition and the need for him to receive proper medical attention. The incident has raised concerns about the treatment of detainees in DSS custody and the need for the government to ensure that they receive proper medical attention.
As the trial continues, it is essential that Kanu's health condition is taken into consideration. The government must ensure that he receives proper medical attention, and that his life is not put at risk. The incident is a reminder of the need for the government to prioritize the health and well-being of all detainees, and to ensure that they receive proper medical attention.