Social Media Erupts as Nigerians Accuse Government of Double Standards
The Federal High Court in Abuja has on Thursday turned down the request by detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to be moved from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to the National Hospital, Abuja, for specialized medical care.
The ruling has triggered heated debate nationwide, with supporters and critics of the separatist leader once again clashing over the government’s handling of his prolonged detention.
Delivering judgment, the presiding judge held that the DSS medical facility was “adequately equipped” to cater to Kanu’s health needs, dismissing claims that his fragile condition required advanced treatment only obtainable at the National Hospital.
Kanu’s lawyers had argued that his continued detention without access to external medical experts amounted to a violation of his fundamental rights, stressing that his health had “deteriorated significantly” while in custody.
The court, however, maintained that granting the application would amount to interfering with the lawful custody of the DSS and could pose security risks.
Social Media Reactions
The ruling quickly set off a storm of reactions on X (formerly Twitter), where Nigerians accused the government of applying double standards.
One user, Nelson Collins, lashed out:
“I said it before the court proceedings. Those who accepted to build schools and markets for bandit peace deals are the ones denying his medical transfer. Ask them his offenses—you will hear ‘inciting violence.’ But those who are actually causing violence are in round-table discussions with government.”
Another user described the decision as “justice tailored to silence one man while pampering terrorists.”
The contrasting public opinions highlight the deep divide in the country’s political and security discourse.
Double Standards Debate
Critics argue that while violent bandits and terrorists in parts of the North have been offered amnesty, rehabilitation, and negotiations, Kanu—a separatist agitator—faces relentless prosecution.
For many, the ruling reinforces perceptions of selective justice, with the government accused of cracking down harder on separatist movements in the South-East while adopting a “softer” stance toward armed groups elsewhere.
Supporters of the government, however, insist that Kanu’s rhetoric and actions have fueled insecurity in the South-East, justifying the state’s tough approach.
The court’s decision has raised concerns over possible escalation of tension in the South-East. Pro-Biafra groups have warned that the ruling could further inflame sentiments, potentially leading to renewed protests, sit-at-home directives, and violent clashes with security forces.
Observers fear that the decision may deepen mistrust between the region and the federal government, undermining fragile peace efforts.
With the court’s ruling, Nnamdi Kanu remains in the custody of the DSS as his trial on treasonable felony charges continues. His legal team has vowed to explore all available legal options, including appealing the decision.
For now, the battle over his health, rights, and trial remains a focal point of Nigeria’s political and security landscape—one that could have far-reaching implications for unity, justice, and peace in the country.
PIONEER NEWS 