The trial of a Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, popularly known as “Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya,” was adjourned on Friday by an Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka due to his alleged ill-health.

Ezenagu appeared weak as he was assisted into the court premises by security operatives.

His condition raised concerns about whether he was fit to stand trial.

After observing the defendant, the presiding judge, Justice Jude Obiora, ruled that he was not in a proper state to take his plea.

The court subsequently adjourned the matter until June 3 to allow him to receive medical attention.

Justice Obiora said the case would continue on the new date.

Before the defendant was brought into the courtroom, disagreement reportedly broke out between the prosecution and defence teams over his health condition.

The prosecution team was led by the Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke.

While the prosecution argued that the matter should proceed, defence counsel Kingsley Awuka insisted that his client was too ill for the hearing and needed urgent medical care.

Speaking after the sitting, Nweke said the state government remained ready to continue with the prosecution of the case.

Awuka, on his part, expressed hope that the defendant would recover and be fit to stand trial by the next adjourned date.

Ezenagu was earlier arrested and paraded by the Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, on March 26.

He was accused of violating the state’s Homeland Security Law.

Following his arrest, security operatives reportedly took him to his residence in Nnewi for a search and questioning over his activities.

According to the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, the native doctor allegedly lured young men and women with promises of quick wealth.

He was accused of asking them to bathe in a stream located behind his house as part of the ritual.

State authorities said he had previously been warned to stop such activities, but allegedly continued despite earlier caution.