The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has claimed that its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is experiencing internal bleeding as a result of alleged torture during his detention by the Department of State Services (DSS). The pro-Biafran group issued a press statement on Sunday, emphasizing the urgent need for specialized medical treatment to prevent severe consequences.
Kanu, held by the DSS since 2021 after his arrest in Kenya, received approval for trial on terrorism charges from the Supreme Court on December 15. In its statement, IPOB expressed concern over Kanu’s health, citing reports of medical complications in DSS solitary confinement.
The group alleged that the internal bleeding might be a consequence of torture inflicted by Nigerian secret agents during Kanu’s abduction in 2021. Additionally, they pointed to drug overuse and abuse by the DSS as potential contributors to his health issues.
IPOB’s spokesman, Emma Powerful, stated, “Our leader requires medical emergency treatment outside the DSS facility to undergo surgery for his survival.” The group urged the Federal Government and the British Government to release Kanu on medical grounds, allowing independent professionals to attend to him.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, IPOB appealed to the international community to intervene and ensure President Bola Tinubu releases Kanu promptly. The group warned against any harm befalling Kanu, emphasizing his significance to the Biafran cause and the potential repercussions for Nigeria.
“The Federal Government should be careful that nothing happens to Kanu during and after his illegal detention in DSS solidarity confinement. Kanu is a precious jewel that Biafrans have given their lives to protect, and many are ready to give their lives for him. Kanu is a trigger of the gun that is capable of sinking Nigeria if mishandled,” IPOB asserted.
