The failure of the prosecution to serve defendants in a three-count charge of alleged terrorism, attempted murder and malicious damage, against Francis Okolie and four others of Ogwashi-Uku, in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, has stalled the commencement of trial of the case.
The Prosecution Counsel, Orji Kalu Esq, had told the court that the charge against the defendants had been re-amended to include the 5th defendant and Iyase of Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Michael Nwaukoni.
He added that prosecution had yet to serve the defendants the re-amended charge.
Counsel to the 5th defendant, Chioma Ukwuanyi Esq, observed that the previous amended charge was not accompanied by a proof of evidence, insisting that being a criminal case, a proof of evidence must accompany the re-amended charge before the case could proceed, as required by law.
Prosecution Counsel, Orji Kalu Esq, agreed with the observation made by Counsel to the 5th defendant regarding the proof of evidence and assured that all relevant documents would be provided before the next adjourned date
However, Counsel to Prince Ojo Izediunor, the 2nd defendant, Chief Albert Akpomudje, SAN, raised the issue of two amended charges in one case before the Court.
Ruling on the matter, Justice Olufumilola Agbaje, said the issue of the re-amended charge would be addressed in the next adjourned date, which she fixed for April 3, 2025.
All the accused persons in the case marked: FHC/Asb/18C/24, except Chief Michael Nwaukoni, were present in Court .
They are the National Legal Advisor, Francis Okolie Esq, Prince Eugene Ojo Izediunor, the Agidiase Youth President, John Nwona, and the Secretary General of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Union, Adigwe Eluemunor
