…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
Trial of Seun Kuti Experiences Setback as Chief Magistrate on Leave
The trial of Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti has encountered yet another setback as Chief Magistrate Adeola Olatunbosun of the Yaba Magistrates’s Court is currently on leave.
As a result, the case was adjourned by the court registrar, Mr. Babalola, to September 27, 2023, for the continuation of proceedings.
Seun Kuti was initially arraigned by the Lagos State Police Command on May 16, 2023, on charges of assaulting a police officer, an offense contrary to Section 356 of the Nigerian Criminal Code Act.
During the hearing on May 24, Magistrate Olatunbosun, in her ruling, criticized the police, stating that they could not simultaneously serve as the complainant and the prosecutor in the case.
She requested the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to proceed with the prosecution.
Magistrate Olatunbosun stated, “I need the advice of the DPP to know whether he should be prosecuted or not,” and subsequently adjourned the case until July 3, 2023, to await the DPP’s advice.
However, on the day scheduled for the hearing, it was discovered that Magistrate Olatunbosun had resumed her administrative leave and was absent from the court.
Consequently, the case was further adjourned due to her absence.
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