Man was 'like Jekyll turning to Hyde' after week without medication before GP surgery attack, trial told

A man who injured staff at a GP surgery after struggling to get his medication was 'like Jekyll turning to Hyde' as he 'lost control' during the episode, a court has heard. Olumuiwa Oduntan, 61, is on trial at Minshull Street Crown Court this week after striking staff with a metal post at Florence House Medical Practice, in Openshaw.

Jurors have heard Mr Oduntan lashed out after being unable to get an appointment for a repeat prescription, for medication to aid his mental health. Mr Oduntan has already pleaded guilty to an offence of affray, three offences of causing grievous bodily harm, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm following the incident on September 17, 2021.

But jurors are being asked to consider whether Mr Oduntan committed three counts of wounding with intent, which he denies. Wearing a black gilet over a blue shirt, with blue jeans and white trainers, Mr Oduntan was called to give evidence this afternoon (Thursday, March 14).

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Under questioning from his barrister, Stephen Akinsanya, he agreed he had a type of schizophrenia and insisted he did not intend to cause any harm to anyone. He described the medication he takes every day - but the court heard he had not had any medication for a week up to the day of the incident.

“I rang [the practice] every day but it was always engaged,” said Mr Oduntan. "I was feeling terrible, depressed. I was agitated. I just needed my medication… I was hearing voices and all sorts. I was in a bad place.”

Mr Oduntan, from east Manchester, told jurors his intention was to get his medication and 'go back home'. He described how at the time, the voices in his head ‘would not stop’.

“I just wanted to be normal,”