A High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has issued an order preventing the Nigeria Police from re-arresting and transferring to Abuja any defendant currently undergoing trial in connection with the murder of the late Ahoada Divisional Police Officer, Bako Angbashim. Justice Sika Aprioku, presiding over the case, also prohibited the relocation of the murder case file to the Abuja High Court.
Commending the prosecution team led by C.F Amadi from the Nigeria Police and Rivers State Department of Public Prosecution, Justice Aprioku emphasized that only individuals with established cases in the file should face trial after necessary amendments to the charges. Expressing disapproval, the judge highlighted the illegality and violation of court processes, citing Section 67 of the Administration of Criminal Justice, as some defendants were being prosecuted in Abuja for a case already in the Rivers State High Court.
Justice Aprioku adjourned the proceedings until March 15, 2024, urging counsel with applications, especially bail requests, to coordinate with the Department of Public Prosecution or the police for guidance. Among those facing trial for the conspiracy, cultism, and murder charges related to the late Ahoada DPO are former Ahoada East local Government Area chairman Cassidy Ikegbidi, monarch Ngozi Anugwo, and over 50 others, while Chime Ezekpalike and four co-defendants are also being tried on the same charges in a High Court in Abuja.
