The defence counsel was unable to convince the … of John's innocence.

Analyze the question: The sentence asks who the defence counsel (the lawyer defending the accused) was unable to convince of John's innocence. We need the word that names the body that decides guilt or innocence.

Explain the concept: In a criminal trial, the defence counsel argues for the accused. The group that listens to the evidence and decides whether the accused is guilty or not guilty is the jury. In Nigerian courts, a judge often decides alone, but the word "jury" is still the standard English term for those who judge innocence or guilt.

Check each option:

• A. plaintiff: The person who brings a civil case against another. John is the accused, not the plaintiff, and a plaintiff does not decide innocence. Wrong.
• B. witness: A person who gives evidence. A witness does not judge innocence, so the lawyer would not be "convincing" a witness of it. Wrong.
• C. panel: A general word for a group (for example, an interview panel). It is not the specific legal term, and it does not fit the context of a trial verdict. Wrong.
• D. jury: The group of people sworn to give a verdict in a court case. This is the one the defence counsel must convince. Correct.

Answer: The sentence reads: "The defence counsel was unable to convince the jury of John's innocence."

Tip: Link legal words to their roles:

• Plaintiff = the one who sues
• Defendant/accused = the one being tried
• Witness = the one who testifies
• Jury = the one who gives the verdict