The Federal High Court in Abuja has made a significant ruling regarding the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. On Tuesday, the court dismissed Kanu’s fresh application for bail, opting instead for accelerated hearing of the Federal Government’s seven-count charge against him.

Kanu, through his legal team, had sought bail on health grounds due to his deteriorating condition, citing hypertension and acute heart disease. His lawyers argued that his continued detention posed a threat to his life and hindered his ability to prepare his defense effectively.

In response, the Federal Government opposed the bail application, expressing concerns about Kanu’s potential flight risk and emphasizing the security measures in place to protect him. The prosecution argued that there was no evidence to support exceptional circumstances warranting bail.

Kanu, who has been in detention since June 2021, had previously been granted bail in 2017 but fled the country during his trial. He was later re-arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria, where he has remained in custody.

Despite previous legal developments, including the striking out of some charges and a court order for his release, the Supreme Court ultimately allowed the FG to proceed with the trial on the remaining charges.

The case has faced numerous delays and challenges since 2015, prompting frustration from the trial judge over the proceedings. The recent ruling sets the stage for a continued legal battle between Kanu and the Nigerian government.

This latest chapter in the ongoing saga of Nnamdi Kanu highlights the complexities and controversies surrounding his case, underscoring the broader issues of justice, human rights, and political tensions in Nigeria. As the legal battle continues, the world watches closely to see how this high-profile case unfolds.