A businessman Mr. Michael Nwaukoni, who has been evading arrest and is wanted by the Nigerian police, failed to appear in court on Tuesday, 8th October 2024, at the Federal High Court in Asaba.
Mr. Nwaukoni, along with others, faces serious charges including terrorism, inciting native war, attempted murder, and malicious damage.
The case, charge number FHC/ASB/18C/24, was filed by the Inspector General of Police against Mr. Nwaukoni and co-defendants: Barrister Francis Okolie, Eugene Izediunor, Eluemunor Adigwe, and John Nwona.
During the hearing, the prosecuting counsel from the Inspector General of Police requested an adjournment to allow time for filing counter-affidavits to oppose the bail applications submitted by the defendants.
It is noted that bail is rarely granted in terrorism cases unless extraordinary circumstances exist.
The charges stem from an incident in October 2023, when the defendants allegedly launched an armed attack on staff at the Ogwashi-Uku palace, leaving several individuals with severe injuries.
It was reported that police vehicles were also damaged during the attack by the group, who were reportedly acting under Mr. Nwaukoni’s direction.
Following an investigation, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abaniwonda Olufemi, approved the filing of charges against the accused.
According to confidential sources within the police, there were repeated efforts by the defendants to obstruct justice and derail the case, but these attempts were ultimately unsuccessful.
As a result, the trial is now set to commence on the 5th of November, 2024, at the Federal High Court in Asaba.
At the resumed hearing, the Prosecution Counsel, Mr. Idika Kalu, informed the presiding judge, Justice Olufunmilola Agbaje, that he had not yet filed the necessary counter-affidavit and requested additional time.
The defense counsels—Mr. Efe Akpofure, SAN, representing the first defendant; Mr. Albert Akpomudje, SAN, for the second defendant; Prof. Oludayo Amokaye, SAN, represented by Mr. Fikayo Hughes, SAN, for the third defendant; and Mr. Riky Tafar, SAN, representing the fourth defendant—did not object to the adjournment.
Justice Olufunmilola Agbaje subsequently adjourned the case to the 5th and 6th of November, 2024, urging the prosecution to avoid any further delays.
