By Nahason Nyagaka
Lagos, Nigeria – The highly anticipated criminal trial of Nigerian singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, hit a roadblock on Wednesday at the Federal High Court Lagos. The reason? A pending application for fiat before the Chief Judge of the court.
What Is a Fiat? A fiat is a formal authorization or permission granted by a higher authority, allowing a specific action or legal proceeding to take place. In this case, it pertains to the continuation of Naira Marley’s trial.
Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari, the prosecutor in the case, informed the trial judge, Justice Isaac Dipeolu, that an application for fiat has been submitted. This application seeks to enable the former judge, who previously presided over the case, to continue with the trial of the defendant.
However, the fate of the trial now rests in the hands of the Chief Judge of the court. The application for fiat is currently awaiting approval. Until the Chief Judge grants the necessary authorization, the proceedings cannot move forward.
Naira Marley, a controversial figure in the Nigerian music industry, faces charges related to cyber fraud and other offenses. His trial has garnered significant attention, with fans and critics closely following each development.
The delay caused by the pending fiat application adds further intrigue to the case. As legal teams prepare their arguments and witnesses await their turn, the courtroom remains in suspense. Will the Chief Judge grant the fiat, allowing justice to proceed, or will Naira Marley’s trial face further delays?
For now, Naira Marley’s fate hangs in the balance, awaiting the Chief Judge’s decision. As the legal system navigates its complexities, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on this high-profile trial.
