Police Not Ready To Commence Trial Of Dino Melaye's Lawyers, Brother

Senior magistrate of a court in Mpape, Mohammed Zubairu has expressed disappointment in the actions of the Nigerian Police force for being unable to commence trial in the case concerning Dino Melaye’s Lawyers and brother. this came after counsel to the prosecution G.J Ayanna, told the court that he would no longer be the counsel in charge as the Legal department of the Nigerian police headquarters has indicated interest to personally handle the issue. He credited the absence of the new counsel to the fact that although the necessary files have been transmitted to the police legal department, he is not aware if the files have been received. Mr Ayanna made a passionate plea to the court for an adjournment. Tunde Oyefeso, legal representative to Pius Udo-Inyang and David Amaefula (1st and 3rd defendants respectively), did not oppose to the adjournment. However, he said the prosecution should bear in mind that criminal matters ought to be completed on time. Mr Nkem Okoro, counsel to Samuel Melaye aligned himself with the first defendant’s counsel. The fourth defense counsel R. Okotiebo said that “a criminal offence is not a gold plated wristwatch or necklace that a person should wear”. She said “the same speed with which the prosecution brought the defendants to court should be applied in the trial process”. The legal representative further described the action of the prosecution as an “insult” to the court. She urged the court to strike out the case or give an order to the prosecution to show up in court on the next adjourned date. Magisterate Zubairu said the application by the 4th defendant to strike out the case is ‘premature’. He adjourned the matter until June 19. Barrister David Amaefula and Pius Udo-Inyang, who are of the law firm of Messrs Rickey Tarfa & Co. Abuja Office, were on Tuesday, April 24 and 25 arrested by men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, office Guzape after they were dispatched to the Zankli Medical Centre, Mabushi, Abuja to secure justice for Senator Melaye, who was being admitted there. Also two other persons, Samuel Melaye who is a cousin to Melaye and his friend Waziri mohammed were also arrested during the raid. They are standing trial for criminal conspiracy, obstruction of public servant from performing his lawful duties, as well as abatement and assault on police officers.]]>