9. The Respondent State’s time to file its Response was extended on 9 July 2020, 23 February 2021 and 28 July 2021. Furthermore, on 10 August 2022, the Respondent State was reminded to file its Response within 30 days, failing which, the Court would proceed to deliver a judgment in default in accordance with Rule 63(1) of the Rules. The preceding notwithstanding, the Respondent State has failed to file a Response. 10. Pleadings were closed on 19 April 2024 and the Parties were notified thereof. IV. PRAYERS OF THE PARTIES 11. The Applicant prays the Court to: i. Quash his conviction and sentence; ii. Order his release from prison; and iii. [Grant him] costs. 12. The Respondent State did not participate in the proceedings and, therefore, did not make any prayers. V. THE DEFAULT OF THE RESPONDENT STATE 13. Rule 63(1) of the Rules stipulates that: Whenever a party does not appear before the Court, or fails to defend its case within the period prescribed by the Court, the Court may, on the Application of the other party, or on its own motion, enter a decision in default after it has satisfied itself that the defaulting party has been duly served with the Application and all other documents pertinent to the proceedings. 4