Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed Tukur Mamu’s plea for a transfer from the Department of the State Service (DSS) to the Kuje Correctional Centre.
In the verdict delivered on Monday, Ekwo stated that the federal government cited frequent jailbreaks as the primary reason to counter Mamu’s transfer request.
The judge noted Mamu’s failure to counter the government’s claims, which, by law, stand as facts without the need for further evidence.
Mamu must stay in DSS custody for the duration of his trial on criminal charges, the court ordered.
However, Ekwo reiterated his previous order allowing Mamu medical care under DSS oversight.
Mamu, through his attorney on April 29, claimed non-compliance by the DSS with the court’s December 19, 2023, order for medical treatment access.
Mamu stated he met his physician once, after which a medical report was given to the DSS. Post-report, he claimed the physician’s access was denied, and he required surgery in any national hospital.
The suspect expressed concern for his health and risk of death if not moved to Kuje Prison, yet assured court attendance.
He was detained at Aminu Kano International Airport on September 6, 2022, linked to the Abuja-Kaduna train attackers of March 28, 2022.
On March 21, 2023, the DSS charged him with 10 counts of terrorism financing, among others, to which he pleaded not guilty.
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