By Anne Azuka
The Federal High Court sitting in Asaba, Delta State, has granted bail to Chief Mike Nwaukoni, a business mogul and first defendant in a terrorism and attempted murder case involving an alleged attack on the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II.
Chief Nwaukoni, alongside Francis Okolie, John Nwaona, Prince Ojo Izediunor, and Eugene Elue Adigwe, is facing trial for allegedly leading a violent assault on the monarch’s palace during the Ineh (New Yam) Festival held two years ago in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Ruling on the bail application filed by Chief Efe Akpofure, SAN, on Tuesday, the presiding judge granted Chief Nwaukoni bail in the sum of N25 million, with strict conditions. The court ordered the defendant to surrender his international passport and produce a surety with verifiable landed property worth the same amount within the court’s jurisdiction.
The court also ruled that all defendants must remain within the jurisdiction unless formally permitted to travel, warning that any violation of the bail conditions would lead to immediate revocation.
Following the ruling, the prosecution opened its case by calling its first witness, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Christian Onuegbu, who was deployed to secure the Obi’s Palace on the day of the alleged incident.
In his testimony, DSP Onuegbu recounted how the defendants allegedly led a large, armed crowd to the palace and attempted to gain entry by force. He told the court that the group, upon being denied access, attacked security personnel and began shooting indiscriminately.
According to the witness, one vigilante member was shot during the confrontation, prompting the police to deploy reinforcements and tear gas to disperse the attackers.
The presiding judge adjourned further hearing in the matter to January 21, 2026, for continuation of trial.
Reacting to the development, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, Palace Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, expressed optimism that the judicial process would help restore peace and order in the community.
He added that the town had been grappling with repeated acts of provocation and violence allegedly orchestrated by the same individuals now standing trial.
