Court Refers Nnamdi Kanu’s Motion For Medical Transfer Back To Chief Judge

Justice Musa Liman of the Federal High Court in Abuja has returned a motion filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to the Chief Judge for reassignment.

The motion, filed ex-parte, seeks an order transferring Kanu from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to the National Hospital in Abuja for urgent medical treatment.

At Monday’s hearing, Justice Liman noted that the annual court vacation had ended, leaving insufficient time for the vacation court to hear the matter. He explained that more than 30 cases had been listed for the day, but only six could be considered. In line with Section 46(8) of the Federal High Court Rules, he ruled that cases not resolved within the vacation period must be referred back to the Chief Judge.

Although Kanu’s counsel, Uchenna Njoku (SAN), stressed the urgency of the application due to his client’s worsening health, the judge pointed out that the motion was filed late. DSS counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), did not oppose Njoku’s request for reassignment, but remarked that the matter could have been heard earlier if filed promptly.

Kanu’s legal team, led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), had argued that the IPOB leader’s health had deteriorated while in detention. Medical examinations reportedly revealed complications affecting his pancreas and liver, a lump under his armpit, and dangerously low potassium levels. Doctors recommended his immediate transfer to the National Hospital for specialist care.

The case, originally pending before Justice James Omotosho with charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015, will now await reassignment by the Chief Judge for further hearing.