Police inspector charged with manslaughter

A police inspector, Felix Ugolo, on Thursday appeared before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos charged with manslaughter.

Ugolo, 54, whose address is unknown, is facing a charge of manslaughter.

The prosecutor, Insp. Richard Odigie told the court that the offence was committed on June 27, 2012 at Adewale Street, FIBA new site Isashi, off Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

He said the policeman was on duty when the deceased, one Sunday Okoli, 45, a motorcyclist, was arrested for riding on the highway.

“The deceased was put in the police van, but the deceased struggled with the accused in an attempt to get off the vehicle.

“Unfortunately, the accused mistakenly pushed the deceased off the moving vehicle.

“The accused was arrested by his colleague and had been in police custody for over two years,” Odigie said.

According to him, the offence contravenes Section 222 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Chief Magistrate, Miss S.O. Solebo, granted the accused bail in the sum of N200, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

Further hearing in the case has been adjourned to March 12. (NAN