TB Joshua fails to appear in court for arraignment

TB Joshua and other arraigned engineer failed to show up in court

It was earlier reported that Pastor TB Joshua was scheduled to appear in court today in relation to his collapsed church building. He was billed to appear before the  Lagos State High Court in Ikeja over the collapse of a six-storey building in the church on September 12, 2014, which led to the death of 116 persons.

Reports have now emerged that he, alongside the engineers arraigned were not present for the proceedings.

READ: TB Joshua to be arraigned in court today

The Senior Pastor of Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) and two contractors facing trial for criminal negligence over a church building collapse failed to appear in court, prompting the judge to adjourn the case.

One member of the church’s trustees was, however, present. The court was told that the engineers, who have unsuccessfully tried to obtain an injunction to prevent their arrest and prosecution, had not been served with a summons.

Judge Lawal Akapo said he was unhappy at the defendants’ absence and said he would not tolerate any unnecessary delays of the trial.  “It appears the defendants are not mindful that this is a criminal proceeding. This is a criminal trial and a sensitive matter like this one should be given accelerated hearing,” he said.

He directed the defence team to provide the court with the engineers’ addresses within 72 hours and adjourned the case until December 11.