Further hearing in the trial of four persons who were arraigned over alleged complicity in the murder of Cynthia Osukogu, a postgraduate student of Nassarawa State University, was stalled yesterday owing to the failure of the defendants to file their written addresses.
Justice Olabisi Akinlade of an Igbosere High Court had to further adjourn the matter following a request by the defendants’ lawyers.
The trial has suffered series of setbacks in the past due to the foot dragging of the defendants in filing their written address since last year.
The four defendants: Okwumo Nwabufor, Olisaeloka Ezike, Orji Osita and Nonso Ejike, are standing trial on a twocount charge of conspiracy and murder.
They were accused by the Lagos State government of killing 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.
At yesterday’s proceedings, only the first and second defendants had legal representations.
The trial judge expressed her displeasure over the delay approach being adopted by the defendants. The judge had earlier threatened to send the fourth defendant, Nonso Ezike, back to prison for deliberately stalling the case. The matter was adjourned to June 8 for the adoption of parties written address.
