A State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has adjourned proceedings in the case involving the death of a two-year-old pupil, Winnie Akekue, fixing May 26 for the defendants to take their plea.
The case centers on the proprietor and four management staff of Wisdom Gate School, Eligbolo campus, who are facing allegations of culpability in the incident that led to the toddler’s death within the school premises.
At Tuesday’s hearing, defence counsel informed the court that the prosecution—led by the Rivers State Ministry of Justice—had not yet served the defendants with the necessary court documents. On that basis, the defence requested an adjournment to allow due process to be followed. 
Presiding judge, Monima Danagogo, granted the request and directed the prosecution to ensure all relevant processes are served before the next hearing date. The court also ruled that the administrative bail earlier granted to the accused by the Nigerian Police should remain in effect.
Additionally, the judge ordered that the surety standing for the defendants must continue to be present in court until the issue of plea is fully addressed.
The tragic incident occurred in March, when a shelf reportedly fell on the child at the school’s Eligbolo campus, leading to her death.
Speaking after the court session, legal practitioner Chetam Nwala, who is representing civil society organisations in the matter, said the case is being closely followed to ensure accountability and justice.
