In a dramatic turn of events, Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, issued a production warrant against Nigerian music sensation Azeez Fashola, widely known as Naira Marley, on Friday, News About Nigeria reports.
Naira Marley, a prominent figure in the Nigerian music industry, is currently embroiled in a legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He faces a total of 11 counts of charges, primarily centring around allegations of conspiracy and credit card fraud.
The courtroom was abuzz with anticipation as proceedings resumed on Friday. Naira Marley, a popular artist with a massive fan following, was notably absent.
His defence counsel, Olalekan Ojo, a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), informed the court of the musician’s unavoidable absence.
Ojo explained that his client had been detained by the police for questioning in connection with the murder of Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, also known as Mohbad.
On the opposing side, prosecution counsel Bilkisu Buhari was quick to respond. She implored the court to issue a production warrant, thereby ensuring Naira Marley’s presence at the next scheduled court date.
After carefully weighing the arguments presented, Justice Oweibo granted the prosecution’s plea and issued the production warrant against the defendant.
The judge adjourned the matter until October 30, 2023, when the trial will resume.
This development comes just as Naira Marley remains in Police custody following the death of Mohbad.
