Mohammed Tukur Mamu, a former terrorist negotiator facing trial for terrorism offenses, has petitioned the Federal High Court in Abuja to transfer him from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to Kuje prison. Mamu, represented by his lawyer Abdul Mohammed SAN, cited medical concerns and alleged non-compliance with a court order granting him access to medical treatment.
During the trial’s resumption, Mamu’s legal team argued that the DSS failed to adhere to the court’s directive issued on December 19, 2023, allowing Mamu access to his personal physician for medical care. Despite one instance of access, Mamu claimed that subsequent requests for medical attention were denied, jeopardizing his health, and necessitating urgent surgical procedures.
Expressing apprehension over his deteriorating health and potential loss of life, Mamu emphasized his commitment to attending trial proceedings but stressed the need for immediate medical attention. However, the absence of the federal government’s counsel, David Emmanuel Kaswe, caused a delay in the proceedings, prompting Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo’s intervention.
Justice Ekwo expressed dismay at the unexpected absence of the prosecution counsel and emphasized the court’s commitment to upholding justice. Despite the prosecution’s absence, the judge invoked court rules, deeming the processes filed by the prosecution against Mamu’s application as adopted.
Consequently, Justice Ekwo scheduled May 20 for a ruling on Mamu’s request to transfer from DSS custody to Kuje prison. It’s worth noting that Mamu’s arrest in September 2022 was linked to his alleged association with terrorists involved in the Abuja-Kaduna train attack in March 2022. The DSS arraigned him on terrorism financing charges in March 2023, to which he pleaded not guilty.
