By Charles Maduka
The Nigerian Medical Association has confirmed it has completed the court-ordered health assessment of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, and submitted its findings to the Attorney General of the Federation. The evaluation followed a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja directing the association to set up a panel of medical experts to assess Kanu’s condition and report back within eight days.
According to the NMA’s Secretary-General, Dr Ben Egbo, a team of seven doctors drawn from each of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, alongside a coordinator, carried out the examination. The specialists included experts in ophthalmology, neurology, urology, gastroenterology and other fields. The panel also reviewed the capacity of the Department of State Services hospital to manage Kanu’s health needs, as instructed by the court.
The medical review came after Kanu applied to be moved from DSS custody to the National Hospital in Abuja, citing worsening health. Justice James Omotosho directed the NMA to conduct the evaluation and submit its findings to help determine whether Kanu should be transferred for treatment.
Meanwhile, Kanu has petitioned the World Medical Association, alleging inadequate care in detention and claiming that his health has deteriorated under the DSS. In a letter signed by his international counsel, Bruce Fein, he said he has been held in solitary confinement for over four years without trial, detailing symptoms such as hypertension, organ strain, tinnitus and severe potassium deficiency.
The petition urged the WMA to ensure he receives proper medical care, review irregularities in his medical records, protect independent doctors involved in his treatment and secure the release of the NMA’s latest medical report. Kanu warned that further delays or interference could undermine the accuracy of his health evaluation and pose serious risks to his life.
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