By: Audrey Raymonda John
Justice Augustine K. Musa has issued a stern warning to state prosecutors, instructing them to produce their first three witnesses at the next adjourned hearing in the ongoing manslaughter trial of Ekubolaje Nicol. He warned that failure to do so would compel him to take decisive action.
“Make sure you bring your witnesses no further excuses. The only reason I am considering another adjournment is because this would be the third time these witnesses are testifying,” Justice Musa stated firmly.
His warning came after the prosecution failed to present any witness during the hearing on Friday, July 4, 2025 marking the second consecutive session where no witnesses have been brought in the high-profile case involving the death of Sinnah Kai Kargbo, believed to be the girlfriend of the accused.
At the previous hearing on June 13, 2025, when Nicol pleaded not guilty to three charges conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, and perverting the course of justice lead state prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay had assured the court that multiple witnesses would be presented.
However, in Friday’s session, Prosecutor Sesay told the court that securing the witnesses has become challenging, noting that this would be the third time those same individuals are expected to testify. He added that the case has been heard by three different judges since its committal from the Magistrate Court in 2023.
“We are facing serious challenges. Some witnesses have already testified in earlier proceedings, and now they’re difficult to reach. Some have even forgotten about the case, and others have changed addresses. While we don’t have absolute control over witnesses, we are making every effort to bring them to court,” Sesay explained, emphasizing that the prosecution has not given up.
In response, lead defence counsel Rowland Wright reminded the court of its emphasis on a speedy trial, criticizing the state for failing to honor its previous commitment.
“The accused has been in remand for over three years. The prosecution keeps saying they will make an effort to bring witnesses but they are not giving any certainty as to when. That alone shows they’re struggling,” Wright argued, subsequently applying for bail for the accused.
He also referenced precedents where bail had been granted in similar manslaughter cases.
Earlier during the proceedings, the judge granted the prosecution’s application for a trial by judge alone, a move Prosecutor Sesay said would promote justice and speed up the trial.
It is worth noting that Justice Musa had earlier promised, during the case’s commencement on June 13, to conclude the matter including both prosecution and defense within one month, starting July 4, before the court’s vacation period.
Ekubolaje Nicol is facing three charges: conspiracy to commit a felony, manslaughter, and perverting the course of justice. According to court records, the incident allegedly occurred on October 16, 2022.
The accused remains on remand, and the matter has been adjourned to July 18, 2025.