On Tuesday, the trial of the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari and his co-defendants took place amidst strict restrictions, preventing reporters, visitors, and lawyers from witnessing the proceedings.
News About Nigeria reports that the trial centered around drug-related charges filed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Justice Emeka Nwite, presiding over the case in Court 10 of the Federal High Court in Abuja, made the decision to limit access to the trial following a request from Mr. Sunday Joseph, the counsel representing the NDLEA’s Legal and Prosecution Department.
Joseph sought the court’s assistance in safeguarding the identity of a key witness scheduled to testify during the trial.
In his application, Joseph specifically requested that other counsels, visitors, litigants, and journalists be barred from entering the courtroom during the proceedings on Tuesday.
Acting upon this request, Justice Nwite temporarily adjourned the proceedings, allowing those who were not directly involved in the anti-narcotic case against the suspended police officers to exit the courtroom.
The move to restrict access to the trial can be seen as an effort to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of the proceedings, particularly concerning the protection of the witness’s identity.
By allowing only the relevant parties to remain present during the hearing, the court aimed to minimize the risk of interference or potential harm to the witness.
While the decision undoubtedly limited transparency and public scrutiny of the trial, it reflected the court’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice and ensuring the safety and well-being of those involved.
By creating a controlled environment, the court sought to facilitate a fair and unbiased trial, free from external pressures or influences.
This development marked a significant chapter in the ongoing legal battle faced by Abba Kyari and his alleged accomplices.
The drug-related charges brought against them by the NDLEA had garnered widespread attention, making the trial a matter of public interest.
