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The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled March 19 for a ruling on the bail application filed by the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, in the terrorism charges brought against him.
Justice Binta Nyako adjourned the proceedings on Monday after Kanu’s counsel presented the bail application, which was contested by the federal government’s counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN).
Kanu’s bail application was submitted following the resumption of the hearing in the seven-count charges against him, as directed by the Supreme Court.
Kanu’s primary argument is that he requires bail to adequately prepare his defence and have unrestricted access to his legal team. Additionally, he cited health issues, including acute hypertension and heart disease, as further grounds for his bail request.
However, the federal government opposed the application, citing Kanu’s previous bail breach and flight from the country. They argued that all previous bail conditions were violated, urging the court to dismiss the request.
Awomolo, representing the prosecution for the first time, also contested another motion filed by Kanu, which sought to halt the trial until the Department of State Services (DSS) ceased interfering with his legal team during visitations. Additionally, Kanu requested permission to wear clothes of his choice during proceedings.
The federal government objected to these requests, asserting that Kanu does not have the right to dictate trial proceedings under the law.