Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has officially named Obi Aguocha, the Labour Party member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia State, as his negotiator with the Nigerian government. This development marks a significant step in the ongoing dialogue surrounding Kanu’s detention and his critical health condition.
Obi Aguocha has been actively advocating for urgent medical treatment for Kanu, whose health has been reported to be deteriorating severely while in custody. Aguocha recently raised a point of privilege in the House of Representatives, urging the Speaker and federal authorities to intervene and secure appropriate medical care for Kanu, highlighting official medical reports indicating organ deficiencies and dangerously low potassium levels.
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, however, clashed with Aguocha over the manner in which the issue was raised, ruling Aguocha out of order for bringing the matter by a point of privilege. Despite the tension, the Deputy Speaker assured that the matter would be formally debated in the House to address Kanu's rights and health condition.
Kanu’s naming of Aguocha as his official negotiator underscores the growing political and humanitarian concerns around his prolonged detention and the need for urgent attention to his welfare. Aguocha’s role involves engaging the government to ensure compliance with court orders mandating independent medical examinations and viable treatment options for Kanu.dailypost
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest and extradition from Kenya in June 2021. He faces multiple charges, including terrorism-related offenses, but his supporters maintain that his rights should be protected, especially his right to health and fair trial.
This latest development could pave the way for more constructive dialogue between the federal government and Kanu’s representatives, amid increasing pressure from lawmakers and activists calling for humane treatment and justice.