LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-A 26-year-old lawyer, Ekunife Emmanuel has found himself in the dock at the Lugbe Grade I Area Court in Abuja.
He was accused of assaulting a commercial sex worker.
Emmanuel from Jahi Abuja, faced charges of criminal breach of trust, assault causing hurt, and inciting disturbance, according to the police.
Denying the allegations, Emmanuel stood firm in his defence.
The case stemmed from a report filed by Queeneth John, a commercial sex worker operating in Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, who approached the Asokoro police station on March 12.
According to the prosecuting counsel, Olisaemeka Okeke, John alleged that on March 11 around 10 pm, Emmanuel solicited her services while she was hawking in Wuse.
He then escorted her to Bannex Plaza, demanding sexual services. Subsequently, he took her to Hotel Guzape, promising to compensate her with ₦50,000 after intercourse.
READ ALSO: Miyetti Allah Members Storm Court, Demand Release of Leader
However, after the sexual encounter, Emmanuel reneged on his promise to pay. When John demanded her payment, he allegedly assaulted her, causing bruises all over her body.
Upon being taken to Asokoro Police Station, Emmanuel allegedly began recording videos of the station and its officers, inciting disturbance in a public office.
During a police investigation, Emmanuel reportedly confessed to the allegations.
The charges brought against him are in violation of Sections 312, 365, 244, and 114 of the Penal Code.
Presiding Judge Aliyu Kagarko granted Emmanuel bail, setting the amount at ₦1 million, along with a surety of equal sum.
The judge stipulated that the surety must be a legal practitioner with a minimum of five years of practice and must present their call to bar certificate.
Additionally, the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction. The case was adjourned until April 18 for further proceedings.