In a shocking turn of events, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) found themselves on the other side of the law as one of their personnel, Isa Freeman, was assaulted, with two fingers severed, allegedly by a motorist, Godwin Alex.
The incident unfolded in the Zone Two Magistrate Court, sparking a heated legal battle.
According to the prosecuting officer, Olanrewaju Osho, Alex was apprehended for driving against traffic along Kabusa in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
However, instead of cooperating, he reportedly turned violent, leading to the altercation.
During the arraignment, Alex pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against him. His counsel, Ibraheem Bashir, argued for bail on grounds of the defendant’s ill health, requesting permission for medical attention and the release of Alex’s vehicle from police custody.
Additionally, Bashir sought to bar media coverage of the proceedings.
Presiding over the case, Magistrate Cendy Oluwaseyi rejected the plea to restrict media coverage, asserting journalists’ right to report.
She ordered the vehicle to remain in police custody pending further investigation.
Despite the seriousness of the charges, Magistrate Oluwaseyi granted bail to Alex, requiring two sureties to provide a bond of one million naira each.
One surety must be a civil servant not below level 10, and both must furnish utility bills as well as proof of residence in the FCT.
The case is set to reconvene on May 16, leaving both the prosecution and defense preparing for a contentious legal battle ahead.
LV