The family of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has raised an alarm over his deteriorating health condition while in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Kanu, who has been detained since 2021 following his extradition from Kenya, is reported to be critically ill and in need of urgent medical attention.
Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel, issued a statement expressing deep concern over his brother’s health, stating the urgent need for him to see a cardiologist. Despite repeated pleas and concerns raised by the family, access to Kanu’s personal doctors has not been granted, he said.
The family’s plea extends to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to intervene and ensure Kanu receives the necessary medical care. He said that Kanu should not be allowed to perish in DSS custody due to lack of medical attention.
The family criticized the political elite in the South-East for their perceived inaction in advocating for Kanu’s release.
They questioned why Igbo political leaders have not engaged President Tinubu to discuss Kanu’s release, despite their purported access to the President on other matters.
The family alleged that certain individuals may be benefiting from Kanu’s continued incarceration, resulting in a lack of concerted efforts to secure his freedom.