Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court has denied the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu bail.
Kanu’s lead counsel, Mike Ozkhome while moving for an application for Kanu’s bail reminded the court that until a person is tried and convicted, he should be allowed the liberty of enjoying freedom.
He said that Kanu is innocent until proven guilty and urged the court to consider Kanu’s deteriorating health condition.
But ruling on the application, Justice Nyako ruled that the application was premature.
Justice Nyako held that since Kanu was earlier granted bail in 2017 and jumped the bail, the court must first determine the real reason he jumped the bail before he reapply for another one.
She also urged Kanu’s lawyers to refile and reapply for his bail.
Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Kanu’s lawyer in a statement said: “The Honourable Justice Nyako, in his Ruling on Onyendu’s bail application refused to grant an immediate bail, but not entirely denied.
“The Court, however, directed that we should return with a fresh application for bail after entertaining an application stating the circumstance(s) under which he left the country in 2017.
“The court intends to inquire into that circumstance(s) before entertaining a fresh application for bail. Therefore, the road is not closed for his bail. There is still hope.
“However , the Application has just been taken and adjourned to the 26th Day of May 2022 for Ruling and if the Ruling goes in our FAVOUR next week , then ONYENDU willl go home with us.
“Furthermore, the Court have struck out the six amended charge brought against Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu this morning.
“We will continue to provide you with updates as events unfold, but for now, remain calm and prayerful, UmuChineke”.
