The trial of an undergraduate of the University of Lagos, Chidinma Ojukwu, the accused murder suspect of Super TV Chief Executive Officer Usifo Ataga, could not proceed on Tuesday due to the defendant’s absence.
Ojukwu, a 300-level student in the Department of Mass Communication, is facing nine charges of murder, theft, and forgery in a Lagos State High Court at Tafawa Balewa Square.
She appeared in court with her sister, Chioma Egbuchu, and one Adedapo Quadri.
Only the third defendant, Egbuchu, was present for the resumed trial on Tuesday. Ojukwu and Quadri weren’t brought from the detention prison to court.
Inmates were not brought to court due to the industrial action by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.
Justice Yetunde Adesanya said correctional facility officials had informed the court that the inmates would not be brought to court for security purposes until the strike was called off.
Counsel for the first defendant, Mr. Onwuka Egwu, said, “Due to the NLC strike, I suggest that tomorrow’s date be vacated and a fresh clear date is given.”
