In a significant development in the manslaughter trial of Ikubolaje Nicol, a former Skye Bank manager, the Appeal Court Judge, Justice Alhaji Momoh Jah-Stevens, has issued a subpoena for Dr. Tamba T. Lebbie, the Medical Superintendent Officer of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service. Dr. Lebbie has been called to testify regarding Nicol's health status.

This decision came on June 11, 2024, following a request from State Counsel Aruna Jalloh, who argued that Nicol should return to the Pademba Road Correctional Centre to continue his medication. Jalloh contended that the Correctional Service Doctor had not complied with a previous court order requiring bi-weekly health updates on Nicol while the trial is ongoing.

Jalloh highlighted the Correctional Service's failure to adhere to the court's order issued on May 14, 2024, which mandated regular health status reports for the accused. Due to this non-compliance, Jalloh requested that Nicol be returned to the Maximum Male Correctional Centre pending further medical reports.

Defense Counsel Anrite C. Thompson opposed this request, stating that the Correctional Service had fully complied with the court's order through two letters dated May 27, 2024. The first letter, a comprehensive report on Nicol's health, was submitted by the Medical Superintendent to the Judge. The second letter, also from May 27, 2024, was scheduled for a follow-up on June 11, 2024.

Thompson argued that these reports fulfilled the court's requirements and provided necessary updates on Nicol's health. He emphasized that the latest report indicated Nicol's serious health condition, suggesting that further updates were essential to determine any improvements.

Despite Thompson's objections, Justice Alhaji Momoh Jah-Stevens ordered Dr. Tamba T. Lebbie to appear in court. Dr. Lebbie is expected to provide detailed medical recommendations regarding Nicol's health and explain why Nicol should not be hospitalized within the Correctional Centre while receiving the same medical attention as other inmates.

Additionally, Justice Momoh Jah-Stevens cautioned Correctional Officers against allowing unauthorized medical personnel to attend to Nicol. The trial involves charges of manslaughter against Ikubolaje Nicol, related to the death of Sinnah Kai Kargbo, a former employee of Skye Bank.

This judicial order aims to ensure clarity on Nicol's health condition and adherence to the court's directives, ensuring that the accused receives appropriate medical care while in custody.