The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB) has issued a grave warning concerning the deteriorating health of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The group has urged for his immediate release from detention, citing severe health concerns and allegations of neglect by Nigerian authorities.
In a recent statement, IPoB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, expressed deep apprehension about Kanu’s condition. The group has accused the Nigerian government, the judiciary, the Department of State Services (DSS), and certain Igbo politicians of plotting to eliminate Kanu. They warned that any harm coming to Kanu while in detention would result in dire consequences for Nigeria and those involved in his detention.
The IPoB’s concerns have been underscored by a letter from Dr. Onye G. Acholu, a highly qualified interventional cardiologist based in Abuja. Dr. Acholu, who was scheduled to visit Kanu for a medical evaluation, reported that his request to see Kanu was not accommodated by the DSS. In his letter dated July 16, 2024, Dr. Acholu stated, **“I was scheduled to visit him today on health grounds but the DSS could not attend to this request.”**
Dr. Acholu’s letter further highlighted the urgency of Kanu’s medical situation. He strongly recommended that Kanu be transferred to his clinic for a thorough examination and necessary tests. **“Based on symptoms communicated to me, I strongly recommend that he be brought to my clinic so that proper and focused examination, including necessary tests, will be carried out to address his complaints,”** Dr. Acholu wrote.
This development adds to the mounting concerns regarding Kanu’s health, which IPoB and various human rights organizations have been raising. Despite multiple court orders declaring Kanu’s detention illegal, his continued imprisonment has sparked intense criticism and calls for his release.
IPoB has reiterated its demand for Kanu’s freedom, emphasizing that his continued detention is not only illegal but also a grave threat to his well-being. The group has called on international bodies and human rights organizations to intervene and ensure Kanu’s immediate release.
The implications of Kanu’s health crisis extend beyond personal concerns; they have become a significant political issue. IPoB has vowed to persist in its struggle for Biafran self-determination, irrespective of Kanu’s current circumstances. The group’s commitment to this cause remains steadfast, even as it grapples with the ongoing challenges presented by Kanu’s detention.
In light of these developments, the Nigerian government and the DSS face increasing pressure to address Kanu’s medical needs and respond to the allegations of negligence. The international community and human rights advocates are closely monitoring the situation, as the potential consequences of Kanu’s health could have far-reaching effects on Nigeria’s political landscape.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about Kanu’s health and detention continuing to unfold. As this story develops, the focus will remain on whether the Nigerian authorities will act on the urgent recommendations provided by medical professionals and whether Kanu will receive the medical attention he urgently needs.
For further updates and detailed coverage of this issue, stay tuned to Vanguard News.
