Nnamdi Kanu Cries Out Over Alleged Medical Neglect, Warns of Life-Threatening Health Crisis in DSS Custody

The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of deliberately denying him adequate medical treatment despite his deteriorating health condition.

His lawyer, Barrister Nnaemeka Ejiofor, who visited him at the DSS headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, relayed Kanu’s concerns to the public, stressing that the IPOB leader’s health is worsening rapidly while in solitary confinement.

According to Ejiofor, DSS medical staff recently confirmed that Kanu’s potassium level is “dangerously low,” placing him at imminent risk of heart failure. Yet, Kanu alleged that the prescribed medications have failed to improve his condition.

“The DSS doctor himself admitted that my potassium level is dangerously low and could trigger heart failure at any moment,” Kanu stated. “They keep giving me drugs that do nothing. My potassium keeps depleting regardless of their so-called treatment.”

The statement further revealed that Kanu’s blood has been drawn more than 50 times, including samples sent to South Africa for analysis, but no satisfactory explanation has been provided for the consistent potassium depletion.

“If I am healthy, why have they taken my blood over 50 times?” Kanu asked. “Even South African specialists could not explain why my potassium continues to drop.”

He suggested that his condition may stem from poisoning during his arrest in Kenya in 2021 and accused Nigerian authorities of ignoring calls for effective medical intervention.

“I strongly believe I was poisoned in Kenya with the knowledge of the Nigerian government. Instead of giving me proper treatment, they keep administering ineffective drugs,” Kanu alleged.

The IPOB leader added that vital organs such as his pancreas, kidneys, and heart are already showing signs of strain.

Ejiofor disclosed that an independent medical panel led by Professor Ariadje, Professor Emeritus and physician, recommended Kanu’s transfer to the National Hospital in Abuja for comprehensive treatment, but the DSS has allegedly refused.

“The DSS, acting on the federal government’s directive, has rejected every request to move him to the National Hospital, a government-owned facility here in Abuja,” Ejiofor said.

Kanu emphasized that he is not seeking release on compassionate grounds but wants to face his trial in good health.

“I do not want to be freed because I am dying,” he said. “I want to stand trial in full health and let the facts be revealed before the public. Only a living man can face trial.”

He urged Nigerian authorities to either allow him treatment at the National Hospital or grant his supporters permission to fund his medical care.

“If the government refuses to cover my treatment, I and my supporters are willing to bear the cost. All I ask is access to proper medical care,” Kanu declared.

Ejiofor warned that continued neglect could cost his client’s life, calling on Nigerians and the international community to hold the government accountable.