Chief Judge of Rivers state, Justice Lamikanra Iyaye, has issued a renewed order on the Prison authorities to produce the former Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government area, Ojukaye Flag-Amachree to court to take his plea for the fresh charges slammed on him.
Ojukaye is facing fresh charges of alleged murder of one Iminabo Dokubo and attempted murder of Ipalibo Jackreech.
The matter which was adjourned for plea today could not continue following the absence of the accused in court.
Defence Counsel, Roland Otaru, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria had told the court that there is a pending matter in the Appeal court where the accused is facing similar charge of murder.
Meanwhile, for his part, State Counsel, Godwin Obla, SAN, said the criminal Law does not stop an accused facing a murder charge from standing trial in different courts.
However, the Chief Judge, Justice Lamikanra said the Federal Comptroller of Prisons and the Deputy Comptroller of Prisons should not test the resolve of the court and ensure that Ojukaye is produced on the next adjourned date.
Speaking with newsmen outside the courtroom, State counsel, Godwin Obla said the state is ready to commence trial.
“In a matter like this parties in the matter must obey the rules of of the court. The Defence counsel understands rules of professional conduct. The prison authorities may be committed for contempt if the accused is not produced,” Obla said.
It will be recalled that this is the second time the Chief Judge is issuing an order on the Prison authorities to produce Ojukaye Flag-Amachree in court.
The matter was adjourned to October 5 for plea.
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