The trial of a Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, popularly known as “Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya”, was stalled at the Anambra State High Court on Friday after he was declared unfit to take his plea due to ill-health.
Ezenagu appeared visibly weak and had to be assisted into the court premises by security operatives, raising concerns about his condition and ability to stand trial.
Following his condition, trial judge, Justice Jude Obiora, ruled that he was not fit to proceed with arraignment and adjourned the matter to June 3 to allow him receive medical attention.
“The matter is hereby adjourned to June 3 for continuation,” the judge stated.
Before the court session, a disagreement had broken out between the prosecution team led by the Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, and the defendant’s counsel, Kingsley Awuka, over whether the case should proceed.
While the prosecution argued that the trial should continue, the defence insisted that the defendant required urgent medical care.
Speaking after the sitting, Nweke said the state was prepared to continue prosecution once the defendant is fit, while Awuka expressed confidence that his client would be well enough to stand trial at the next adjourned date.
