Court adjourns trial of Anambra native doctor over ill-health

As gathered by our news desk, the defendant being assisted into the court premises by security operatives. Photo credit: Ikenna Obianeri

The arraignment of Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, popularly known as “Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya”, could not proceed before the Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka on Friday due to his alleged ill-health.

Ezenagu, who appeared frail, was assisted into the court premises by security operatives, raising concerns about his fitness to stand trial.

This prompted the trial judge, Justice Jude Obiora, to find him unfit to take his plea due to poor health. The judge subsequently adjourned the case to June 3 to allow him attend to his health.

“The matter is hereby adjourned to June 3 for continuation,” the judge declared after listening to both parties.

Before the defendant was brought into the courtroom, a heated disagreement broke out over his health condition between the prosecution team, led by the Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, and counsel for the defendant, Kingsley Awuka.

While Nweke argued that the case should proceed despite the defendant’s condition, Awuka maintained that his client required urgent medical attention and was unfit for further proceedings.

Speaking with journalists after the sitting, on the other hand, Nweke disclosed the state government “remained ready to continue with the prosecution of the case.”

In his remarks, Awuka expressed optimism that the defendant would be fit to stand trial by the next adjourned date.

After the arrest, he was taken to his house in Nnewi for a search and to answer questions about his activities.

Speaking during the parade, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, noted the native doctor allegedly lured young men and women, promising them quick wealth if they bathed in the stream behind his house.

Emeakayi remarked such acts violated the state’s Homeland Security Law, noting that Ezenagu had earlier been cautioned over his activities but continued with the practice.