Cynthia Osokogu Murder: Defence Counsel Stalls Proceeding

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News Friday, October 10th, 2014

Justice Olabisi Akinlade of a Lagos High Court sitting in Igbosere on Friday accused the seconf defence counsel of stalling the trial of the four men charged with the murder of Cynthia Osokogu and related offences in Lagos in 2012.

The judge noted the attitude of the second defence counsel in delaying the matter since the commencement of the trial while reminding all counsels that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The proceedings of the trial of the alleged killers of Cynthia were stalled for the second time by the absence of the defence counsel.

The prosecution had on Sept 19, 2014 closed its case at the court for the defence to open its case.

The counsel to the 1st defendant, Mr. Victor Opara had at the last hearing failed to appear in court only to send a text message to the Attorney-General informing him of an urgent eye operation, while the counsel to the 4th defendant, Mr. C. Achomanu also failed to appear without any form of excuse.

At the court on Friday, the counsel to the 2nd defendant, Mr. Michael Ajayi from the chambers of Miike Igbokwe [SAN] and Co. sent a letter to the court for a stand down of the case till 12.30 pm, but eventually failed to show up.

The men are facing a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, murder, stealing, negligence and possession of stolen goods.

The offences contravened Sections 221,231,409 and 285[1] of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The matter was adjourned to Oct 31 and Nov. 7, 2014.