Nigerian Court Orders Release of David Ukpo’s Details to Ekweremadu, UK Trial Adjourns
LONDON/LAGOS – In a significant development in the organ trafficking case involving Senator Ike Ekweremadu, a Nigerian court has mandated the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and other relevant agencies to release the official details of the alleged victim, Mr. David Ukpo, to the former Deputy Senate President’s legal team.
The order comes as the UK court, presiding over the case, made a crucial ruling that Ukpo is not a minor. This determination means the controversial aspect of his age will no longer be a factor in the ongoing trial in London.
The case, which has drawn international attention, saw its latest hearing at the Westminster Magistrates’ Court. The court has now been adjourned until August 4, when the proceedings will continue at the Central Criminal Court, Old Bailey, as approved by the UK Attorney General.
Senator Ekweremadu, his wife Beatrice, and a convicted doctor, Obinna Obeta, are facing charges for allegedly conspiring to arrange the travel of David Ukpo to London with the intention of exploiting him for his organ.
The presence of high-profile Nigerian politicians at the London court underscored the case’s significance. Among those who attended to show support were former Senate President Senator David Mark, former Senate Minority Leader Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, former Minister of State for Education Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa.
The Nigerian court’s order to release Ukpo’s official details, such as his biodata and passport information, is expected to aid Ekweremadu’s defence as they seek to verify the true identity and age of the young man at the centre of the alleged plot.
©CDA News
