Efforts by the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief
Willie Obiano to fast track trial of
crime suspects have started yielding dividends as the National Drug Law
Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Monday confirmed arrest and prosecution of two
drug dealers, Mrs Afoma Okagbue, 44, and her daughter,
Linda, 22, at the Federal High Court, sitting in Awka.
Governor Obiano recently told a delegation at the Governor’s
Lodge that the Judiciary has a fundamental role to play in the fight against
criminals and criminalities in the state by ensuring quick dispensation of
Justice.
The two suspects were
arraigned on a three-count charge for
conspiring and illegal dealing on
cocaine, and cannabis sativa, narcotics drugs
contrary to and punishable under
Section 14(b) of the NDLEA Act Cap N30
of the Laws of the Federation of
Nigeria, 2004
The suspects were also accused of possessing without lawful authority dealing
in 11.2 grammes of cocaine, a narcotic drug, and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under section 11© of the same NDLEA Act .
They were equally dealing without authority in 5.1 grams of
Cannabis sativa, a narcotic drug and thereby committed an offence, contrary to
and punishable under section 19 of the same NDLEA Act
Speaking after the two suspects were charged at the Federal Court, the Prosecuting Counsel and Head of Legal Unit of the NDLEA, Mr. Parick Eshua, confirmed
that the duo were arrested at Umota village, Obosi, Idemili North Local
Government Area on Tuesday last week over the alleged crimes.
Mr. Eshua said prosecution of the case was very important to
the Agency because one of the suspects, Linda, a student, was indoctrinated
into drug peddling by her own mother, stressing that no parent should introduce
a daughter to an illicit business that would smear the image of the entire
family.
However, following oral application from the defense counsel,
Mr. Chinwuba Ndukihe, the judge granted bail to the two suspects with two
sureties for each of the accused persons who must be residents in Awka and a
civil servant of Grade Level 10 and above while the prosecuting counsel must
verify the addresses of the sureties.
The prosecuting counsel explained that the judge applied
immunity in granting the oral application instead of formal application ahead
of the approaching judicial recess while the defence counsel Ndukihe said they
would try to meet the bail conditions
The case was subsequently adjourned to 11th
December 2014 when the judiciary is expected to have returned from recess.
I think man deserves more applause...
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