The defence counsel complained that the statements contained in the proof of evidence served on them were all illegible and that the audio interviews of the defendants were also inaudible.
The 22-year-old 300-level Mass Communication student of the University of Lagos was docked before the court alongside Adedapo Quadri on an eight-count charge bordering on the offences of murder, forgery and stealing.
The state also arraigned Chidinma’s sister, Egbuchu Chioma from whom the late Ataga’s iPhone 7, was said to have been recovered on one count.
They all pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The defence counsel, Onwuka Egbu, Mr Babatunde Busari and Mr A.O. Ogunsanya, told the court that the defendants had a right to clearer statements and audible video interviews as it would enable them to prepare their defence adequately.
However, the prosecution led by Mrs Olabisi Adeyemi informed the court that she had two witnesses in court and was ready to begin trial.
Adeyemi also promised to send soft copies of all the proof of evidence to each defence counsels’ email before the end of the day.
Justice Adesanya, in her ruling, directed the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) to provide clearer statements and audible copies of the interviews to all the defence counsels before the end of the day.
She then adjourned the matter to Nov. 11, 15, 16, 17, 26 and 30 for trial.