The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is set to carry out an independent medical assessment on the health condition of detained Biafra agitator, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, amid a dispute between the Department of State Services (DSS) medical team and his private doctors.
The association, which serves as the umbrella body for medical practitioners in Nigeria, has constituted a seven-member panel to review and resolve the conflicting medical reports concerning Kanu’s state of health.
Lead counsel to the DSS, Asiwaju Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), disclosed the development at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday while opposing a motion by Kanu’s legal team seeking his transfer to the National Hospital for treatment.
Awomolo told the court that the panel, made up of medical experts from across the country, had already visited Kanu in custody and would soon submit its findings. He maintained that the DSS medical team, led by Dr. Mohammed Nasir, believes Kanu’s condition can be adequately managed at the agency’s medical facility.
However, Kanu’s private medical team, led by Prof. Martin Aghaji, a retired professor of medicine, insists that his deteriorating condition requires urgent treatment at the National Hospital. Prof. Aghaji’s report, which also referenced possible treatment abroad, was dismissed by the DSS as “exaggerated and suspicious,” prompting the involvement of the NMA as an impartial arbiter.
Awomolo further alleged that Prof. Aghaji conducted medical tests without involving DSS doctors and altered Kanu’s medication in disregard of previous treatment procedures, accusing him of trying to create a false impression about the detainee’s health.
Responding, Kanu’s lead counsel, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), said the defence would not oppose the NMA’s involvement provided it is sanctioned by the court. He urged the judge to grant the request for Kanu’s transfer, citing multiple health conditions that he argued cannot be properly treated by DSS doctors.
Ikpeazu assured the court that Kanu posed no flight risk and that his presence at the National Hospital would not compromise security. He stressed that ensuring Kanu’s health is essential for him to stand trial on terrorism charges.
The DSS opposed the transfer, warning that it could disrupt medical services for thousands of patients and compromise security arrangements. The agency maintained that Kanu would be allowed access to doctors of his choice within its facilities instead.
Justice James Omotosho, after hearing arguments from both sides, reserved ruling and announced that his decision would be delivered later today.
