CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
A 28-year-old man, Idris Kelani, has been remanded in prison following his arraignment before an Ikeja Magistrate Court over allegations of assault and causing grievous harm during a brawl in Alagbado, Lagos.
The defendant appeared before the court on a two-count charge filed by the Commissioner of Police. The matter was mentioned for arraignment on May 14, 2020, according to court records.
According to the charge sheet marked CHARGE NO 12026 of 2026, the incident allegedly occurred on November 25, 2023, at about 11:00am.
The prosecution told the court that the alleged offence took place at Ile-Ogbo Street, off Joke Ayo Bus Stop, Alagbado, Lagos State, within the Ikeja Magisterial District.
Under Count I, Idris Kelani was accused of unlawfully assaulting one Michael Ogunlade by using a broken plate to stab him on his left shoulder.
The defendant was also alleged to have assaulted one Abeeb Shittu by using the same object to stab him on his left hand during the incident.
The prosecution said the act was contrary to and punishable under Section 173 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.
In Count II, the defendant was charged with causing grievous harm. The prosecution alleged that on the same date, time, and place, he used a broken plate to stab Michael Ogunlade on his left eye.
The charge stated that the act caused grievous harm to the victim and was contrary to and punishable under Section 245 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.
The Investigating Police Officer listed on the charge was AP/NO 219966 ASP Aboche Esther of Alagbado Division. The matter has file reference 161/2026.
However, the defendant pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to him.
The prosecutor, SP Josephine Ihkayere, then asked the Court to give a date for hearing to enable the Police to prove the allegations.
The presiding Magistrate, Mr. L.A. Owolabi, granted him bail with two sureties, who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment.
The matter was adjourned for mention while the defendant was remanded in custody at the Correctional Center at Kirikiri town, Lagos, pending when he will perfect his bail conditions.
Legal experts said every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction. The court is expected to give further directions on bail, plea, and adjournment at the next sitting.