Lagos State Government has arraigned a boat operator, Happiness Elebiju, before a High Court in Ikeja for allegedly causing the death of twelve passengers while conveying them to their destination.

At the proceedings, Elebiju was arraigned on ten counts bordering on manslaughter before Justice Josephine Oyefeso.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Following the plea of the defendant, the Director of Public Prosecution, Olayinka Adeyemi, told the court that two witnesses are present in court to testify against the defendant.

However, the defence team led by one Ganiyu urged the court to adjourn the matter to prepare for trial on the ground that he was just being served the notice in court.

After the submission of the counsel, Justice Oyefeso adjourned the matter till thursday, for the commencement of trial and ordered the defendant to be remanded in prison custody.