Lagos Lawyer Arraigned For Alleged Failure To Produce Suspect In N2 Billion Property Damage Case

A 42-year-old lawyer, Kunle Ologundudu, faced arraignment before the Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos State on Thursday. The charges were related to his alleged failure to produce a suspect, Henry Olumuyiwa, in a case involving the willful/malicious damage of a property valued at N2 billion.

The lawyer, whose residential address was not disclosed, is accused of two counts: conspiracy and an attempt to pervert justice. Ologundudu, however, entered a plea of not guilty during the court proceedings.

Inspector Samuel Ishola, the prosecutor, presented the case, explaining that on December 7, 2023, Ologundudu visited the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon, Lagos State, and stood surety for Henry Olumuyiwa. The latter was under investigation for alleged property damage to the tune of N2 billion, with the affected property owned by Dr. Albert Ndule.

According to Ishola, the lawyer committed to producing the suspect by December 14, 2023, but failed to fulfill this obligation. The prosecutor pointed out that such conduct contravened Section 97 of the Criminal Law of Lagos, 2015.

In response, Magistrate K. F. Balogun granted bail to the defendant, stipulating conditions for his release. Ologundudu was ordered to provide his original call to bar certificate and bar dues receipt for the year 2023. Additionally, the Magistrate instructed him to submit an introduction letter from the chairman of his Nigerian Bar Association branch.

The case has been adjourned until February 6 for mention, as legal proceedings continue.