The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has declared that the ailment of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is not life-threatening, confirming he is fit to stand trial.

Justice James Omotosho, who is presiding over the case, had earlier directed a medical assessment to resolve conflicting claims from the prosecution and defence experts regarding Kanu’s health.

In a report submitted on October 13 by the prosecution team led by Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the medical panel concluded that Kanu’s health condition would not impede his participation in the trial.

Based on the report and in the absence of objections from either party’s legal team, Justice Omotosho affirmed that the defendant could proceed with the trial. The court subsequently granted Kanu six consecutive days, starting October 23, to open and close his defence.

In addition, the judge approved an oral application by Kanu’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi, SAN, allowing the defendant a private consultation with his legal team outside the Department of State Services (DSS) premises. Agabi expressed concerns that discussions could be monitored or recorded by the DSS.

The court ruled that the private consultation would take place in the courtroom, with only Kanu and his lawyers present, between 9 a.m. and noon on October 22. Trial proceedings will resume the following day.