Court Processes Stall Cynthia Osokogu’s Case

The arraignment of four suspected killers of Cynthia Osokogu, who was allegedly killed by friends she met on popular social networking site, Facebook was on Wednesday stalled because of objections raised by counsel to the defendants.

The six count charge of murder, stealing, possession of stolen property and conspiracy brought against the defendants at the Lagos High Court, Ikeja could not proceed as lawyers to the defendants told the court that they had not been properly served with the processes of the matter.

The suspects are Okwumo Nwabufo, Ezike Olisaeloka, Orji Osita and Ezike Nonso.

The prosecution team led by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos state, Mr Ade Ipaye admitted to the mix up in serving the processes to one of the defence counsel but promised to immediately sort out the issue.

Meanwhile, the Attorney General urged the court to grant a speedy trial as he reacted to the submission of the counsel to the second defendant, Mr Olukayode Dada who appealed that the trial should be postponed and his client granted bail to enable him continue his education at the Anambra state university.

The lawyer also argued that the case has received so much publicity and the position already taken by the press will not guarantee fair hearing for his client as press reports and public opinion would prejudice his trial.

In her response, presiding Judge; Justice Olabisi Akinlade said that murder is a serious offence and that the court is empowered to ensure ‘fair hearing in public within a reasonable time’.

She subsequently adjourned to Friday the 8 February for trial.