The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is urging the Nigerian government to release its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, due to his worsening health condition in detention. Emma Powerful, IPOB’s spokesperson, issued a statement alleging that Kanu’s health has significantly declined while in custody.
IPOB claims that the Department of State Services (DSS), which is responsible for Kanu’s detention, is not providing him with adequate medical care. The statement accuses the government of using “experimental drugs and practices” and suggests a deliberate attempt to harm Nnamdi Kanu.
The statement read, “IPOB is bringing to the notice of the international community that the Federal Government and her judiciary have planned a systematic murder of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, using the instrumentality of their fraudulent judicial system.
“Our leader was kidnapped and extraordinarily renditioned to Nigeria and detained for almost three years in DSS solidarity confinement in Abuja. His health has deteriorated inside the detention facilities, and DSS has been using experimental drugs and practices for his serious health issues.
“The DSS lacks proper medical facilities to take care of his falling heart conditions.”
Kanu is currently on trial for terrorism charges, which IPOB maintains are politically motivated. The group has framed his potential death in detention as a government conspiracy. IPOB warns of potential unrest if Kanu is not released in good health, emphasizing his importance to their movement.
The Nigerian government has not yet responded to these specific allegations. Previously, they have maintained that Kanu receives proper care while in custody. Kanu’s lawyers have also filed separate legal actions requesting improved medical access for their client.
This is not the first time IPOB has raised concerns about Kanu’s health. The group’s claims are likely to heighten tensions surrounding the ongoing trial and Kanu’s high-profile status. It remains to be seen how the Nigerian government will address these latest accusations.
