A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has adjourned proceedings until May 26, 2026, in the case involving the death of a two-year-old pupil, Winnie Akekue, at Wisdom Gate School.
The case involves the proprietor of the school and four management staff members attached to the institution’s Eligbolo campus in Port Harcourt.
The defendants are facing allegations of negligence in connection with the death of the toddler, who reportedly died within the school premises after a shelf allegedly collapsed on her in March.
At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, counsel representing the defendants informed the court that the prosecution, particularly the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, had not yet served his clients with the necessary court documents.
He consequently requested an adjournment to allow for proper service of the processes.
After listening to the application, the trial judge, Monima Danagogo, directed the prosecution to ensure that all relevant court documents are duly served on the defence before the next adjourned date.
Justice Danagogo also ruled that the administrative bail earlier granted to the accused persons by the Nigeria Police should remain valid pending further proceedings.
The court further ordered that the surety standing for the defendants must continue appearing before the court until the plea proceedings are concluded.
The incident involving Winnie Akekue sparked public concern after reports emerged that the toddler died following an accident involving a shelf at the school’s Eligbolo campus.
Following the development, the Rivers State Government temporarily shut down the school pending the outcome of investigations into the incident.
