The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has stepped into the heated dispute between the Department of State Services (DSS) medical team and private consultants over the health condition of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
A seven-man panel of medical experts has been set up by the NMA to probe the conflicting reports on Kanu’s state of health.
Lead counsel to the DSS, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), disclosed this at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday while opposing a request for Kanu’s transfer to the National Hospital for urgent treatment.
According to Awomolo, the NMA panel has already visited Kanu in custody and will issue an independent report soon. While the DSS medical team, led by Dr. Mohammed Nasir, insists Kanu’s condition can be managed in their facility, his private doctors, led by Professor Martin Aghaji, argue that his deteriorating health requires advanced care at the National Hospital.
Awomolo, however, questioned the credibility of Prof. Aghaji’s report, alleging it was exaggerated and suspicious, particularly with recommendations pointing to American hospitals.
On the other hand, Kanu’s lead counsel, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), told the court that his client suffers multiple ailments beyond the capacity of the DSS clinic, stressing that the transfer was necessary for justice and his survival.
Justice James Omotosho, after hearing arguments from both sides, announced he would deliver a ruling on the transfer application later today.
The ruling is expected to determine whether Kanu remains in DSS custody or is moved to the National Hospital for treatment.
