The Magistrate Court 1 in Asaba witnessed tense proceedings on Monday as a Pentecostal pastor, Sunday Ogbogho, appeared in the dock over allegations of violently assaulting one Kenneth Orusi.
According to the charge sheet, the incident occurred on July 27, 2025, at No. 5 Elder Ediale Street, off Ibusa Road, Asaba, Delta State. Prosecutors alleged that Ogbogho struck Orusi on the head with a wheel spanner, causing bodily harm—an offence punishable under Section 355 of the Criminal Code.
Ogbogho pleaded not guilty when the charge was read. His lawyer, identified simply as Chris, told the court the defendant is a landlord in Asaba and presented a surety described as a Grade Level 17 officer.
The surety, who introduced himself as Engineer Pastor and Director of Operations at the Delta State Direct Labour Agency, pledged to be available throughout the trial. However, the Magistrate expressed caution, noting that in previous cases, sureties with “field-based” roles had proven difficult to trace when defendants absconded.
“When you take someone on bail, you are telling the court you will ensure they attend trial until the case is concluded,” the Magistrate warned. “We have had situations where people vanish and sureties claim they are working in the field. That will not be tolerated here.”
After consideration, the court granted Ogbogho bail in the sum of ₦500,000, with one surety in like sum. The surety must be a responsible resident within the court’s jurisdiction, a civil servant not below Grade Level 12, and must present an appointment letter, promotion letter, office ID, payslip, and a national identity card or voter’s card. Additional requirements include sworn affidavits, verification of residence, and passport photographs of both the surety and the defendant.
In a stern caution against corruption, the Magistrate told those present:
“In this court, justice is not for sale. Do not give money to anybody—whether court staff, someone claiming to know the magistrate, or even a lawyer—to influence justice. We do not accept money here. Do not tempt the court, and the court will not tempt you.”
The case was adjourned to August 25, 2025, for hearing.
