The High Court sitting in Asaba, Delta State has adjourned proceedings in the controversial case of a missing corpse until April 17, leaving the bereaved family in continued distress as they seek closure in the bizarre incident.
Justice Emmanuel Akpome announced the adjournment yesterday following procedural delays and a request by the defense counsel for additional time to prepare their response to new evidence submitted by the prosecution.
The case, which has gripped local communities since it emerged late last year, involves the mysterious disappearance of the remains of Chief Emmanuel Okonkwo from the mortuary of a private hospital in Warri, just days before his scheduled funeral ceremonies.
“This painful journey for justice continues to test our patience and resolve, said Barrister Kingsley Okonkwo, son of the deceased and family spokesperson. While we understand the legal process must take its course, each delay prolongs our inability to properly lay our father to rest according to our traditions.
The prosecution, led by State Counsel Blessing Egwuenu, expressed disappointment at the postponement but assured that the state remains committed to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the missing corpse and holding responsible parties accountable.
“The Ministry of Justice recognizes the spiritual and emotional significance of this case to the affected family and the wider implications for public trust in our healthcare institutions, Egwuenu stated outside the courtroom.
Court documents reveal that three staff members of the hospital and a security guard have been charged with criminal negligence and tampering with evidence. All defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The case has raised serious questions about mortuary protocols and security measures in healthcare facilities across Delta State, prompting the State Ministry of Health to announce comprehensive audits of all registered mortuaries.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Oshievire, confirmed that the ministry has established a task force to develop and enforce stricter guidelines for corpse management and morgue operations throughout the state.
“While this case proceeds through the judicial system, we are taking proactive steps to prevent similar incidents and restore public confidence in our healthcare facilities,” Dr. Oshievire said during a press briefing in Asaba yesterday.
Community leaders from the deceased’s hometown of Ogwashi-Uku have appealed for calm as tensions rise over what some see as a desecration of cultural and spiritual values.
“We understand the frustration, but we urge everyone to allow the legal process to unfold properly,” said Chief Daniel Osakwe, a community elder. “Justice may be slow, but with persistent advocacy, truth will prevail.”
The case has also drawn attention from civil society organizations monitoring judicial processes in the state. The Delta Civil Rights Coalition has pledged to observe proceedings to ensure transparency and due process.
As the new hearing date approaches, the Okonkwo family remains hopeful that the adjournment will allow all parties to prepare thoroughly, potentially expediting resolution when court reconvenes next week.
“Though the wait is agonizing, our primary concern remains recovering our father’s remains and bringing this unfortunate chapter to a dignified close,” the family spokesperson added as supporters gathered outside the court complex.
The case continues to highlight the intersection of legal, cultural, and ethical dimensions in Nigeria’s healthcare and mortuary management systems.
