Cynthia Osokogu: Defendants’ failure to file written addresses stalls trial

The trial of four suspects, who were docked over alleged murder of a post-graduate student of Nasarawa State University, Cynthia Osokogu, on Monday, suffered set back.

The case had been adjourned till yesterday by Justice Olabisi Akinlade of the Lagos State High Court, Igbosere for adoption of final written addresses by lawyers involved but again, the court was disappointed as lawyers sought for more time.

The suspects – Okwumo Nwabufor, Olisaeloka Ezike, Orji Osita and Nonso Ejike, were standing trial on a two count charge of conspiracy and murder.

They were accused by the Lagos State Government of murdering Cynthia, a friend they claimed they met on the social media platform, Facebook, on July 22, 2012, at Cosmilla Hotel, Lake View Estate, Festac Town, Lagos.

Out of the four suspects, only the first and second defendants were represented by their counsel.

Justice Akinlade did not hide her displeasure over the delay tactics approach being adopted by the defendants. She lambasted the counsel for giving unreasonable excuse to delay the trial.

It would be recalled that last August, the judge had threatened to send the fourth defendant, Nonso Ezike, back to prison for deliberately stalling the case.

However, based on the development, Justice Akinlade adjourned the matter till June 8, 2016, for the adoption of their written addresses by all parties in the matter.