The report came from a medical panel set up by the NMA President, following an order from Justice James Omotosho to assess Kanu’s health status. The order was made after conflicting medical reports were submitted by the Department of State Services (DSS) and Kanu’s defence team.
In its findings submitted to the court on October 13 and partially read in open court, the NMA panel confirmed that “the defendant’s ailment is not life-threatening” and that he is fit to stand trial.
Following the report, Justice Omotosho ruled that the court was satisfied with the NMA’s findings and directed that Kanu should proceed with his defence.
The judge granted Kanu six consecutive days — starting from October 23 — to open and conclude his defence.
Additionally, Justice Omotosho granted an oral application by Kanu’s lawyer, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), for a private consultation between the defendant and his legal team outside the DSS premises.
Agabi had expressed concerns that discussions between Kanu and his lawyers might be monitored or recorded by the DSS. The judge subsequently directed that the private consultation be held inside the courtroom between 9 a.m. and 12 noon on October 22, before the trial resumes on October 23.
Kanu is facing charges bordering on terrorism and other related offences filed against him by the Federal Government.
