The Federal High Court Abuja has rejected the bail application of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The judge Justice Binta Nyako, however, ordered an accelerated hearing for Kanu’s case, which involves charges of treasonable felony.
Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his arrest in June 2021, made an appearance in court on Tuesday.
Emphasizing the need for swift proceedings, Justice Nyako directed the prosecution to present its first witness.
Kanu’s legal representative, Aloy Ejimakor, expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling, citing difficulties in accessing his client while in DSS custody.
He raised concerns about restricted communication and alleged violations of Kanu’s rights, including continuous monitoring of their conversations and Kanu’s prolonged use of the same attire despite court directives.
Ejimakor emphasized the necessity of consulting with Kanu before proceeding with the trial.
Consequently, the court granted a brief recess to allow the legal team to confer with their client.
During this interval, Kanu addressed the court, disclosing his health condition and voicing grievances about his treatment while in DSS custody.
He stated that he suffers from Cognitive Heart Disease and has not received adequate treatment.
Kanu requested relocation to Kuje prison or placement under house arrest, but Justice Nyako denied his appeals.
The court has adjourned the case to April 17, 2024, while dismissing Kanu’s pleas for bail and alternative custodial arrangements.