Proceedings at the Anambra State High Court in Awka were on Friday stalled following the inability of a Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, popularly known as “Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya,” to take his plea due to ill health.
The trial judge, Justice Jude Obiora, ruled that the defendant was medically unfit to be arraigned, prompting the court to adjourn the matter until June 3, 2026.
Tension had earlier built up in the courtroom even before Ezenagu was brought in, as lawyers on both sides engaged in a heated exchange over his health status. The prosecution team, led by the Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, insisted that the state was prepared to proceed with the arraignment.
However, defence counsel, Kingsley Awuka, strongly opposed the move, arguing that his client’s deteriorating condition made it impossible for him to enter a plea or meaningfully participate in the proceedings.
After listening to both sides, the court upheld the defence’s position, stressing the importance of ensuring that the defendant is in a proper state of health before taking any plea.
Speaking to journalists after the sitting, Nweke reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to prosecute the case, noting that the delay would not affect its resolve. On his part, Awuka expressed optimism that Ezenagu would recover in time for the next hearing and be able to face the charges against him.
The adjournment has temporarily put the spotlight on the defendant’s health, as legal observers and members of the public await the next court date for further proceedings.
