The trial of Engineers Oladele Ogundeji and Akinbela Fatiregun, who built the collapsed Synagogue Church Of All Nations’ building, commenced on Monday May 23, 2016 at the Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja.

The prosecution led by the Lagos State Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, who was represented by the Director of Public Prosecution, Mrs.Idowu Alakija , called on the first witness, one Musiliu Adebayo from Lagos State fire service, but counsel to the defendants objected.

The counsel to the Ist defendant, Lateef Fagbemi, [SAN] ; 2nd defendant Chief Akpofure[SAN],: 3rd and 5th defendants Mrs Titilola Akinlawon [SAN] and 4th defendant counsel, Olalekan Ojo objected to the calling of the prosecution witness on the basis that his statement was not included in the proofs of evidence.

The provisions of the constitution were cited to the effect that it would breach the rules of fair hearing if the witness is allowed to proceed.

Mrs Idowu Alakija however in response, argued that the fact that the statement of the witness is not attached to the proof of evidence does not preclude the witness from giving evidence.

The court having listened to the argument of both sides ruled that it is a pre-condition that prosecution includes the statement of any witness where it is available and directed that prosecution avail the defense with the written statement of the witness, if same is available.

The scheduled trial of Engineers Oladele Ogundeji and Akinbela Fatiregun, who constructed the collapsed Synagogue Church Of All Nations’ s building, has been adjourned to June 1st, 2nd and 3rd, 2016.

Ogundeji and Fatiregun are being prosecuted by the Lagos State Government for involuntary manslaughter of the 116 persons who died in the SCOAN building which collapsed on September 12, 2014.

The two engineers alongside their companies – Hardrock Construction and Engineering Company and Jadny Trust Limited, as well as the Registered Trustees of SCOAN, – were arraigned on 111 counts of involuntary manslaughter and failure to obtain necessary building approval.

http://www.lasgidionline.com.ng/2016/05/synagogue-collapsed-building-trial.html