Daud Olatunji
Justice Sika Henry Apirioku of the Rivers State High Court has ordered the remand of three traditional rulers, including the king of Igbu Akoh Kingdom, Eze Cassidy Ikegbidi, and others, over their alleged involvement in the killing of former Divisional Police Officer (DPO) SP Bako Angbashim in Ahoada East.
The Nigeria Police Force brought the accused, along with others, before Justice Apirioku on Thursday, charging them with offenses ranging from murder, conspiracy to commit murder, cultism, and kidnapping.
Despite not entering a plea, the defendants were denied bail, and the court directed their remand in Port Harcourt maximum correctional centre until November 21 for plea and bail consideration.
The case stems from the brutal murder of SP Bako Angbashim by the notorious cult kingpin David Gift, alias 2baba, and his gang in the Odiemudie community forest in September 2023.
Following Angbashim’s death, the three traditional rulers were arrested, along with others from the area, for their alleged involvement.
Speaking to reporters outside the courtroom, SP Enyiyepere Sikpi, the acting Police O.C. legal and prosecuting counsel, highlighted that the defendants’ remand was a result of the prosecution’s opposition to their oral bail application.
The trial is set to resume on November 21, 2023, with charges including attempted murder, murder, cultism, and other offenses.
Uchechukwu Igbegiri, counsel for the defendants, acknowledged the seriousness of the charges and expressed intentions to file formal bail applications before the next court date.
Emphasizing the need for a proper legal process, Igbegiri stated that the High Court’s jurisdiction demanded a motion for bail application.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
