Photo File: IPOB Leader, Nnamdi Kanu

The ongoing trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on terrorism-related charges, has suffered another setback following the absence of a medical report mandated by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Justice James Omotosho, who is presiding over the case, adjourned the matter to October 16, 2025, due to the failure of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to submit a report on Kanu’s health status.

At the last sitting, the court had directed the President of the NMA to immediately set up a medical board to assess Kanu’s health condition. The board was specifically tasked with determining whether the medical facilities at the Department of State Services (DSS) detention facility are adequate for his treatment or if he should be transferred to a private ward at the National Hospital in Abuja.

The board was also instructed to establish whether Kanu is medically fit to stand trial.

At Monday’s proceedings, counsel to the Federal Government, Suraj S’aad, informed the court that the medical board had contacted the prosecution, notifying them that the report was not yet ready for submission.

He therefore requested a short adjournment to allow the medical team complete its investigation and submit its findings. The defense team did not oppose the application, prompting the court to grant the adjournment.

Justice Omotosho subsequently fixed October 16, 2025, for the submission of the medical report and continuation of the trial.

Kanu is facing a seven-count charge filed by the Federal Government, bordering on alleged involvement in acts of terrorism. He is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS).

At the previous sitting on September 26, the court dismissed a no-case submission filed by the IPOB leader. In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that the prosecution had made a prima facie case against the defendant, enough to warrant him being called upon to enter his defense.

The judge noted that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence and exhibits linking Kanu to terrorism-related activities. He also emphasized the need to allow the defendant to respond to these allegations, especially in light of his claims of extraordinary rendition—which Kanu alleges led to his forceful return to Nigeria from Kenya in 2021.

Justice Omotosho maintained that Kanu must be given the opportunity to defend himself in line with his constitutional right to a fair hearing.

The adjournment further prolongs the legal battle that has drawn both local and international attention since Kanu’s re-arrest and detention by Nigerian authorities.