Benedict Uwalaka

By Akinwale Akintunde

Bayo Ogunshola who allegedly assaulted a photo journalist with Leadership, Mr. Benedict Uwalaka, was Friday arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrate Court, Lagos.

Ogunshola, a Director with TOS funeral who led the attack on Uwalaka was arraigned before Magistrate E.O Ogunkanmi on a two-count charge bordering on assault and wilful destruction of professional camera worth N715,000 amidst emotional tears from the photo journalist.

Uwalaka, who could not hide his emotions openly burst into tears during the arraignment.

Benedict Uwalaka and another photo journalist with THISDAY Newspaper, Kola Olasupo are the complainants in the suit.

Uwalaka was attacked at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja while covering the release of the corpses of victims of Dana plane crash to their relatives. 

However, Ogunshola pleaded not guilty to the two count charge levelled against him, while his lawyer, Carew Imeh pleaded for his bail on liberal terms.

Carew told the court that the 28 years old defendant is a Director in TOS funeral and could be granted bail on self recognition.

But the police prosecutor, Mamman, urged the court to consider the fact that the victim was beaten up like a robber in the cause of carrying out his legitimate duty and the bail should reflect such

Magistrate Ogunkanmi however granted the defendant bail in the sum N100,000 with a surety with substantial evidence of tax payment.

The surety must also have property within the jurisdiction of the court and must produce evidence and his residence must be verified.

Further hearing has been adjourned till October 4, 2012.