Delay in NMA report heightens concern over Nnamdi Kanu health status as court adjourned case to October 16 and Sowore calls for peaceful action.
The controversy surrounding Nnamdi Kanu health status has intensified following the delayed conclusion of the medical assessment ordered by the Federal High Court.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) panel set up to examine the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has yet to submit its final report, raising public concern and legal tension.
Justice James Omotosho had, on September 26, directed the NMA President to assemble a team of qualified medical professionals to evaluate Kanu’s health condition and determine whether he is fit to continue his terrorism trial.
This order came after repeated claims from Kanu’s legal representatives that his health had deteriorated significantly during detention under the Department of State Services (DSS).
At the court session on Wednesday, prosecuting counsel Suraj Sa’ada (SAN) informed the court that the medical team was still carrying out its evaluation.
He explained that the panel members were conducting a comprehensive and professional assessment to ensure accuracy and transparency in their report.
Sa’ada urged the court to grant an additional week for the experts to complete their work, stressing that the evaluation was being handled with seriousness and caution due to its sensitivity.
Defence lawyer Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN) did not oppose the request for an extension, noting that the defence’s primary interest was the protection of Kanu’s health and the fair administration of justice.
In response, Justice Omotosho granted the adjournment and fixed October 16 for further proceedings, emphasizing that the medical evaluation must be objective and thorough.
The issue of Nnamdi Kanu health status remains one of the most contentious aspects of his prolonged detention.
Kanu has been in the custody of the DSS since June 2021 after his re-arrest abroad and extradition to Nigeria.
He faces multiple charges, including terrorism, treasonable felony, and incitement. His supporters and lawyers have consistently claimed that his medical condition requires urgent external treatment, alleging that his health has worsened due to inadequate care.
Human rights activists and political observers have repeatedly questioned the government’s handling of Kanu’s case, arguing that prolonged detention without proper medical attention undermines both human rights and judicial integrity.
They insist that the ongoing delay in the Nnamdi Kanu health status report only reinforces concerns about transparency and fairness in the judicial process.
Amid these concerns, Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has made a bold call for peaceful civic action.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Sowore announced his intention to put aside political differences and lead a non-violent march to the Presidential Villa in Abuja to demand Kanu’s release.
“I will set aside my differences with politicians for one cause,” Sowore wrote.
“I challenge every politician or person of conscience from the Southeast who says they want Nnamdi Kanu released to stop the rhetoric. Time for action is now. Let’s march to Aso Rock Villa.
“Every governor, senator, House member, traditional ruler, priest, eze, Igbo person, and every Nigerian who believes in justice should come out and join us.”
He specifically called on Southeast leaders, including Governor Charles Soludo, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Governor Alex Otti, and Peter Obi, to join him in the peaceful demonstration.
“No empty noise,” Sowore declared, urging political figures and citizens alike to act “peacefully, legally, and visibly” to end what he termed as Kanu’s persecution.
Sowore’s remarks have ignited mixed reactions. While many commended his courage and solidarity, others expressed skepticism over the potential impact of such a protest.
Nonetheless, his statement has reignited public discourse on Kanu’s detention and amplified calls for accountability regarding the Nnamdi Kanu health status.
Legal experts have also weighed in, highlighting that the credibility of the Nigerian justice system will be tested by how it handles the court’s medical directive.
Constitutional lawyer Barrister Adaeze Umeh noted that the court’s order to involve the NMA was a commendable step toward fairness, but warned that any attempt to manipulate or delay the medical report could damage public confidence.
She emphasized that the judiciary must demonstrate independence and ensure that medical findings are treated with transparency.
“Justice must not only be done but be seen to be done,” she said.
“If Kanu is medically unfit, the court must act in accordance with both law and humanity.”
Beyond the courtroom, socio-political groups in the Southeast have urged the Federal Government to address the broader implications of Kanu’s case.
Many argue that resolving the Nnamdi Kanu health status issue compassionately could help de-escalate regional tension and promote reconciliation. They have called for dialogue rather than confrontation, insisting that sustainable peace requires political will and empathy.
Public opinion remains sharply divided. While some Nigerians believe Kanu should face trial to the full extent of the law, others view his continued detention as politically motivated.
The pending medical report is now seen as a critical turning point—its findings could either justify continued proceedings or necessitate a humanitarian intervention.
As the October 16 court date approaches, expectations are high. The NMA medical panel’s final report will likely determine the next phase of the IPOB leader trial. For now, both supporters and critics await clarity, hoping that justice will balance the need for national security with respect for human rights.
The case of Nnamdi Kanu health status is more than a legal matter—it represents a test of Nigeria’s democratic conscience, judicial independence, and commitment to the rule of law.
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