An Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka has ordered the remand of a Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, popularly known as Muomiri Afuluanya, at the Amawbia Correctional Centre over alleged violations of the state’s Homeland Security Law.
Ezenagu was remanded following his arrest on March 26 by operatives of Agunechemba, the Anambra State Government’s security outfit, over allegations of breaching provisions of the Homeland Security Law, enacted to support efforts to curb crime and insecurity in the state.
Following his arrest, security operatives reportedly searched his residence in Nnewi as investigations into the allegations continued.
The case first came before Justice Jude Obiora on April 23, but the defendant could not be formally arraigned after concerns were raised over his health condition.
Ezenagu, who appeared visibly weak in court and was assisted by security personnel, was assessed by the court to determine his fitness to stand trial and take his plea.
Justice Obiora subsequently ruled that the defendant was medically unfit to be arraigned at the time and ordered that he receive proper medical attention before further proceedings.
During the proceedings, the defence counsel, Kingsley Awuka, informed the court that Ezenagu had been brought from a hospital and applied for bail on health grounds, requesting that he be allowed to remain in hospital pending the next adjourned date.
However, the application was opposed by the prosecuting counsel, Tobechukwu Nweke, who urged the court to reject the request and remand the defendant in lawful custody while the bail application was being considered.
Ruling on Thursday, Justice Obiora held that a hospital could not serve as a lawful detention facility for an accused person facing criminal proceedings.
“A hospital is not a constitutional facility for the detention of a defendant,” the judge stated.
Consequently, the court ordered that Ezenagu be remanded at the Amawbia Correctional Centre pending further proceedings.
The case was adjourned until June 19 for continuation of hearing and consideration of issues relating to the defendant’s arraignment and bail application.