The embattled Ologbotsere of Warri, Chief Ayiri Emami, has been granted bail by a Chief Magistrate Court in Warri, Delta State on allegations bordering on conspiracy, burglary and stealing.
Ayiri, a billionaire businessman, is being accused of invading the palace of the Olu of Warri alongside others early this year following the demise of Ogiame Ikenwoli.
During the invasion of the palace, the ceremonial crown of the Olu was reportedly carted away by the invaders.
NIGER DELTA TODAY reports that Ayiri was arraigned on Wednesday on a three-count charge – conspiracy, burglary and stealing – with reference case No: CR630/2021.
The embattled Ologbotsere, who had denied his involvement in the invasion of the palace, pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to him.
The court, however, granted him bail and adjourned the case to January 19, 2022, for further hearing.
Ayiri confirmed his arraignment in court on Wednesday to NIGER DELTA TODAY, accusing some prominent Itsekiri chiefs including the Iyatsere of Warri, Chief Johnson Atsheghele, of being behind the case.
He stated that his arraignment would stop him from pursuing other cases he had already instituted in various courts challenging the selection and emergence of Ogiame Atuwatse lll as Olu of Warri.
The Itsekiri chief vowed to pursue the case to a logical conclusion to clear his name of any involvement in the invasion of the palace.
