Abbas, Abia Lawmaker Clash Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Health Condition as Reps Resume, Swear In By-Election Winners
Proceedings at the House of Representatives turned tense on Tuesday as Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Hon. Obi Aguocha (Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, Abia) clashed over the deteriorating health of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The exchange came as the chamber resumed plenary and swore in by-election winners, setting an intense tone for the legislative day.
Aguocha Raises Alarm: “Only a Living Man Can Stand Trial”
Invoking personal privilege, Aguocha alleged that letters he sent in August to the Speaker, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Attorney-General of the Federation seeking urgent medical intervention for Kanu were ignored. He said multiple medical assessments—including one ordered by the Federal High Court and conducted by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)—indicate Kanu is critically ill, with organ deficiencies and dangerously low potassium levels.
“Mr Speaker, my constituent, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is on the verge of death… The court itself stated that only a man who is alive can stand trial,” Aguocha said, insisting the matter is a fundamental human right and noting that other defendants have been permitted overseas medical care.
Abbas Faults Procedure
Speaker Abbas countered that Aguocha’s route was inappropriate, stating the issue should not have been brought under privilege. “If a letter was written to my office, a phone call or visit could have addressed the matter,” he said, hinting that direct engagement would have been the proper channel.
Context: Detention and Rising Tensions
Kanu, detained since 2021 on charges including treasonable felony, remains in DSS custody amid ongoing legal challenges. Rights advocates warn that unresolved concerns around his health and trial could further inflame regional tensions in the South-East.
House Swears In By-Election Winners
In other business, the House administered oaths to newly elected members from recent by-elections, renewing attention on key national priorities—security, economic stability, and justice sector reform.
Nnamdi Kanu House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas Obi Aguocha Nigeria Politics Abia State
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