Justice Samira Bature of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has issued a stern warning to lawyer Victor Giwa and property developer Cecil Osakwe over their repeated failure to appear for arraignment in a suit alleging illegal eviction and criminal intimidation.
At Monday’s hearing, scheduled for the defendants’ arraignment, proceedings were adjourned for the fourth time due to the absence of Giwa and Osakwe. However, the third defendant was present, though without legal representation.
The prosecution counsel, M. O. Una, expressed frustration, highlighting the consistent pattern of adjournments since the case was transferred to the current court. He informed the court that the defendants had once again submitted a letter seeking an adjournment, allegedly on grounds of ongoing settlement discussions.
Una refuted the claim, emphasizing that the nominal complainant, who was present in court, could confirm that no such settlement was in progress.
He argued that the persistent non-appearance of the defendants displayed blatant disrespect for the court and suggested that the court exercise its authority to compel their attendance.
Justice Bature, in her ruling, stated that the court had been patient in accommodating the defendants’ repeated requests for adjournments.
However, she warned that if Giwa and Osakwe fail to appear at the next hearing on February 17, the court would have no choice but to grant the prosecution’s request to compel their attendance through arrest.
The defendants are facing a nine-count charge, including, Unlawful eviction through criminal intimidation and threats to life, Property damage estimated at N300 million.
The matter has been adjourned until February 17 for arraignment, with the court’s warning signaling the importance of compliance to all parties involved.
