A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Tukur Mamu, a former terrorist negotiator, access to his doctor despite opposition from the Federal Government. Mamu, seeking relief due to his deteriorating health conditions, filed a motion requesting access to medical treatment and surgical procedures recommended by his Egyptian and Nigerian doctors.
In response, the Federal Government, represented by lawyer David Kaswe, opposed the application, arguing that the Department of State Services (DSS) had a functional medical facility and medical team capable of handling Mamu’s case. Kaswe urged the court to deny the application, considering the circumstances of the charges against Mamu.
Ruling on the matter on Tuesday, Justice Inyang Ekwo questioned Kaswe about Mamu’s entitlement to his physician. Kaswe affirmed that Mamu was entitled to his physician as long as it was under the supervision of the government’s medical team.
Justice Ekwo ordered that Mamu’s doctor should treat him under the supervision of the DSS’s medical team, stating, “I make an order that the medical physician shall be allowed to give him medical treatment subject to the supervision of the physician of the prosecution. This is the order of this court.”
The court adjourned the matter until February 26, 27, and 28, 2024, for the continuation of the trial.
Tukur Mamu was arrested at the Aminu Kano International Airport in September 2022 upon his arrival from Egypt, based on allegations of his connection with terrorists who attacked the Abuja-Kaduna train in March 2022. On March 21, 2023, Mamu was arraigned by the DSS on 10 counts, including terrorism financing, to which he pleaded not guilty.
