By Sandra Umeh
A Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned until Dec. 3, the trial of defendants charged with alleged export of restricted narcotics following retirement and transfer of judges handling the case.
The defendants are Joyce Uzoamaka, Onyeka Ifeanyi and Roseline Uloma.
They are standing trial on a two-count charge bordering on conspiracy and illegal export of banned narcotics.
The defendants were first arraigned in 2018 before Justice Saliu Saidu, and trial had commenced, but Saidu eventually retired from the bench and the case was assigned to Justice Abimbola Awogboro.
The defendants were consequently, re-arraigned before justice Awogboro and trial again commenced, but Justice Awogboro was subsequently, transferred out of Lagos division.
The case was again re-assigned to Justice M. Kakaki.
When the case was called, the prosecutor, Mr Abu Ibrahim, informed the court of the status of the case so far, adding that it would be appropriate to await a fiat from the Chief Judge, to enable the former judge (Awogboro) conclude the case.
In response, a defence counsel, Mrs Kate Igbo, also informed the court that one of the defence counsel, who was absent from court, had informed her that he already applied for a fiat.
She said it was, therefore, important to bring it to the notice of the judge.
The court, consequently, adjourned the case until Dec. 3 for continuation of trial.
According to the charge, the defendants committed the offence on July 27, 2018, at the International Mali Processing Centre, NACHO of the Murtala Muhammed Airport.
They were alleged to have conspired with one Festus Okeke, said to be at large, to export 9.58 kg of Metephetamine. contrary to the provisions of section 11(b) of the NDLEA Act Cap N30, Law of the Federation, 2004. (NAN)
