Mike Nwaukoni Seeks Bail From Federal High Court Amid Terrorism, Attempted Murder Charges
Mike Nwaukoni, who is currently facing criminal charges, has applied for bail at the Federal High Court in Asaba.
He is one of the defendants in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 (Inspector General of Police v. Francis Okolie & 5 Ors), where he stands accused of orchestrating attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
In addition, he has also been charged with inciting a native war, and the destruction of police and vigilante vehicles.
A copy of the bail application indicates that Mr. Nwaukoni, the 5th defendant/applicant, is seeking relief on the grounds that he is presumed innocent until proven guilty and that the seven-count charges, including terrorism, are bailable offenses under the law.
However, an affidavit attached to the application reveals that Mr. Nwaukoni admitted to leading a crowd to storm the Ogwashi-Uku Palace. He claims that tensions escalated at the palace gate because the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) allegedly prevented his entry, further alleging that police provoked the unrest by deploying tear gas on the agitated crowd he brought to the Palace who wanted to accompany him to appease the gods.
Law enforcement sources familiar with the case, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Mr. Nwaukoni had been declared wanted by the police, with an arrest warrant issued as early as 2024. Despite this, he and his legal representatives reportedly evaded law enforcement for several months, citing alleged health issues as a reason for his failure to present himself for questioning. His evasion came to an end in November 2024, when he was finally apprehended, interrogated, and subsequently granted administrative bail by the police.
A senior police officer underscored the serious nature of the charges, emphasizing that Mr. Nwaukoni and his associates are allegedly responsible for the violent attack, which resulted in significant security challenges within the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
If convicted, Mr. Mike Nwaukoni could face life imprisonment or lengthy custodial sentences, as prescribed under Nigerian law for offenses of this magnitude. The arraignment of Mr Mike Nwaukoni is scheduled for April 3rd 2025 at the Federal High Court in Asaba.
