Confusion as Deceased Lawyer Appears in Rivers Court

On February 10, 2026, a lawyer, who was reported dead in December 2025, appeared in a Rivers court, leading to confusion. The presiding senior magistrate, Kingslei Brigg, was visibly surprised upon reviewing court records that indicated the lawyer had appeared earlier in the year.

The lawyer had failed to appear for a hearing, prompting inquiries that revealed he had allegedly passed away in December 2025. Emmanuel John, the vice chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association's Port Harcourt branch, suggested contacting the deceased lawyer's family for confirmation.

Family members disclosed that the lawyer was allegedly strangled near Oyigbo, Rivers State, and police were investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. The court had considered issuing a bench warrant due to the lawyer's absence, but it was not issued after the lawyer's plea that his client required medical attention.

The case has been adjourned to March 11, 2026, for further clarification.