Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja issued a stern warning on Monday to strike out terrorism charges against four defendants accused of kidnapping and killing the traditional ruler of Amanze-Obowo autonomous community in Imo state, Eze Basil Njoku.
The absence of the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, in court to lead the prosecution led to the threat by Justice Nyako. The four defendants, Jude Iheme, Chika Madukwe, Nwokorie Chidiebere Ejike, and Victor Nwajuiba Obumneke, were scheduled for arraignment at 9 am, but the AGF or his representatives failed to appear, causing a delay until noon.
The charges against the defendants were increased from three to five in the amended charges. Despite the scheduled arraignment at noon, the AGF or his representatives did not show up, prompting the judge to adjourn the case to April 30th.
Lead counsel to the defendants, Solomon Akume, SAN, had requested the dismissal of the terrorism charges, but Justice Nyako decided to give the AGF another opportunity to lead a diligent prosecution. However, she warned that if the AGF or his representatives fail to appear on the adjourned date, the court may have to strike out the charges.
At the previous adjourned date, the AGF had taken over the prosecution from the Inspector General of Police, citing constitutional provisions. Despite being served with a hearing notice, neither the AGF nor the prosecutors were present in court.
Justice Nyako ordered a fresh hearing notice to be served on the AGF for the April 30th arraignment. The defendants, Iheme and Madukwe, were accused of kidnapping and killing the traditional ruler after collecting a ransom of N4 million from his family.
The defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism, kidnapping, and failing to provide information to security agencies. The case has been marred by delays and absences, raising concerns about the diligent prosecution of the defendants.
As the trial continues, the fate of the four defendants hangs in the balance, awaiting a decisive legal outcome.
