The Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court in the United Kingdom has declared that David Ukpo, a purported kidney donor for the daughter of Ike and Beatrice Ekweremadu, is not a minor.
The court during ruling on Thursday ruled that Ukpo, is actually 21 years old and not a minor.
Both Ekweremadu and his wife appeared in the court on Thursday and they pleaded not guilty to the charge of organ harvesting.
Gavin Irwin was the counsel who represented Ekweremadu, while Szilvia Booker represented the wife.
The counsel of Ekweremadu denied any form of exploitation in the case. The legal counsel to the former Deputy President of the Senate, said that all the available evidence provided showed that the said donor is actually 21 years old and not 15 years old as widely reported.
He said, “We deny that there was exploitation or intent to do so.” The counsel said this while presently giving his opening address.
The lawyers of the defendants argued that the victim lied about his age but the prosecution insisted that he is a minor.
After argument from both parties the court held that the victim is not a minor.
Based on the judge’s ruling, the victim, David Ukpo, is no longer considered a minor in the trial. The court then transfer the case to the Central Criminal Court and adjourned till August 4.
The couple will appear at the Central Criminal Court in London on August 4 for the continuation of the trial.
Also, a high-powered Nigerian delegation was in court for the trial of the former Deputy Senate President.
Former Senate President David Mark, whom Ekweremadu worked with; former senate minority leader, Eyinnanya Abaribe; former Minister of State for Education, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba; and Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Adamu Bulkachuwa, were all present during court proceedings on Thursday.
