By Archibong Jeremiah
Justice Simon Amobeda has varied an order he made last year in his ruling that the Court Registrar provide electronic verbatim recorder before proceedings in the case between the Federal Government versus Agba Jalingo continues.
He also granted request by the Cross River State Government to take over the case from the Police Prosecutor. Hence, the State Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) will be appearing in the case.
The Kogi State born Judge who recused himself over 55 days ago, Friday morning while giving his ruling lamented bitterly about the publicity generated so far by the case, saying they never represented the true position of the Court.
In his ruling, he also accused Barrister James Ibor, a Counsel to Agba Jalingo of going contrary to ethical standard. Justice Simon Amobeda recommended that Barrister James Ibor limits himself from speaking publicly on the case.
Barrister Daniel Kip, another Counsel to Agba Jalingo while briefing journalists on the outcome of the Court proceeding expressed hope that justice will prevail.
Justice Simon Amobeda referred the case back to the Administrative Judge of the Federal High Court Calabar for reassignment and commencement of trial.
Amnesty International team and other supporters of Agba Jalingo were in Court in solidarity. See pictures from the solidarity visit below.
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