Federal High Court Denies Nnamdi Kanu’s Bail Application, Orders Speedy Trial

The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the latest bail application filed by Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Trial Justice Binta Nyako has instead ordered an accelerated hearing of the government’s seven-count charge against him.

Kanu, through his legal team led by Aloy Ejimakor, had sought bail on grounds of deteriorating health, citing hypertension and acute heart disease confirmed by a federal government-owned hospital. Ejimakor emphasized the urgency of Kanu’s health condition and argued that his continued detention posed a threat to his life, hindering his ability to prepare adequately for his defense.

However, the Federal Government, represented by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, opposed the bail application, expressing concerns over Kanu’s potential non-compliance with trial proceedings if released. Awomolo highlighted the security measures in place to safeguard Kanu’s life and urged the court to prioritize an expedited trial over granting bail.

The prosecution argued that Kanu failed to prove that authorities denied him access to quality healthcare, as required by Section 161 of the 1999 Constitution. Moreover, it was stressed that there were no exceptional circumstances warranting bail, especially considering Kanu’s previous violation of bail conditions, which led to its revocation.