A Federal High Court sitting in Asaba, the Delta State capital, on Monday, March 17, 2025, arraigned the chairman, Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, the Ovie of Evwreni Kingdom, HRH Oghenekevwe Kumane.
They were arraigned alongside Keheide Kumane, Chief John Iyu, Ochuko Kumane, Ezekiel Odeimo and five others on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism, illegal possession of firearms leading to the death of Prince Muvi Unagha and destruction of property in Evwreni Kingdom.
The bail application was brought by Chief Albert Akpomudje, SAN while arguing a motion against the trial of the traditional ruler and others.
Akpomudje had argued that since 5 other defendants in the case were nowhere to be found the court cannot proceed on the trial of the six persons present in court.
He submitted that it is trite law that in a case like this, every party must be in court before the trial commences.
Challenging the application, Counsel to the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Sani Bagudu, objected to the motion brought by the Senior Advocate, which he said was a defect in the law.
He said the other 5 persons who have absconded have formerly been removed as defendants and been declared wanted, noting that the trial can commence.
Mr Bagudu also objected to the bail application, stressing that the defendants may likely pose threat to the witness if granted bail knowing the nature of the offence.
He submitted strongly that the crime allegedly committed by the traditional ruler and other defendants was a grievous offence.
The presiding judge, Justice F. A. Olubanjo, after listening to the arguments from both counsels, ruled that the traditional ruler and the five defendants should be tried.
He, therefore, adjourned to the 10th of April 2025 for a ruling on the bail application.
Justice Olubanjo also adjoined the case to 4th, 5th, and 6th of June 2025, respectively for accelerated hearing.
