By Grace Okpo, Esq.
What happened in court yesterday has refused to leave my mind.
It was a tough day not only for me but also for the magistrate while even the strongest face among the lawyers could not maintain that status quo.
When I approached the law school student on court attachment to inquire about their take on the matter, my mind told me that they would have enough to tell law school at on their return. However, the effect was heavier than just a report. My question to them was: ” how do you guys feel about today? (I always go to them to ask if they understand the court proceedings or have any questions which I always try to answer).
This time, it was a young man that answered me while the ladies were still trying to control tears. He said, ” Madam, I am really wondering if I am in a right place for my life.” What really happened? (As you may ask).
It was case No. 5 on the criminal cause list. A 2015 matter awaiting DPP’s advice. For 9 years my brothers and sisters, advice was not ready. Still awaiting trial. Counsel had applied for the matter to be struck off but the former court demanded the application to be brought in writing and a copy of the motion served on DPP. Same was done and it took another 1 year for the motion to be heard and matter stood adjourned for ruling.
Before the adjourned date, magistrate was transferred. Matter to start denovo (all over). It took another 6 months for matter to be reassigned. It eventually landed in the current court.
Motion brought up again. DPP not present. Adjourned again for ruling. Yesterday, the adjourned date could not come soon enough.
Counsel called the case. Ruling ready. Cop V. “Mr. man”!
Defendant absent. Counsel! Where is your client? Your worship, he PASSED ON YESTERDAY.
MAGISTRATE: You say? Your worship that is the situation. I am a pro Bono lawyer. The guy was innocent. I spent money trying to get him released but DPP held him back. Our application now my lord is for an order for the correctional center to release his body to his family for burial. SO MAY IT PLEASE THE COURT!
There was total silence…
