Bail Decision: Nnamdi Kanu Awaits Fate Today at Abuja High Court

Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will learn his fate today at the Federal High Court in Abuja regarding his renewed request for bail and removal from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Justice Binta Fatimat Nyako is set to deliver her ruling this afternoon on whether to restore Kanu’s previously revoked bail and consider his request for house arrest or transfer to prison custody.

The court set today’s date, May 27, for the ruling after hearing arguments from Kanu’s legal team, led by Aloy Ejimakor, and the federal government’s representatives, led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN).

Kanu, detained since 2021, is seeking the restoration of the bail granted to him in 2017. He asserts that he did not breach bail conditions but fled the country to avoid an alleged assassination attempt during a military raid on his residence. Kanu argues that the federal government misled the court into revoking his bail in his absence.

Additionally, Kanu’s legal team has requested that he be moved from DSS custody to house arrest or prison, citing the need for unhindered access to his lawyers to prepare his defense against terrorism charges. Kanu insists he will not submit to trial until these conditions are met, in line with Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.

The federal government opposes all of Kanu’s requests. Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) argues that Kanu violated his previous bail conditions by fleeing the country. Awomolo contends that Kanu’s renewed bail request is an abuse of court process and that the High Court cannot overturn its own decisions. He also maintains that DSS custody is the safest option for Kanu’s protection and refutes claims that Kanu has been denied access to his legal team.

Meanwhile, the Igbos in diaspora have reiterated their call for justice and fair play in Kanu’s trial. The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) have appealed to Justice Nyako to adhere to the principles of fairness and uphold the integrity of the judiciary. In a letter signed by AVID President Dr. Sylvester Onyia and Secretary Godson Obiagwu, they urge the judge to follow constitutional guidelines and release Kanu.