Mike Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial Opens In Asaba, Court Imposes ₦25 Million Bail

….. Witness Testifies On Violent Attack At Obi’s Palace

The terrorism and attempted murder trial of Chief Mike Nwaukoni, Francis Okolie, John Nwaona, and Elue Adigwe commenced today at the Federal High Court, Asaba, Delta State — marking a major step in one of the most closely watched security-related cases in recent years in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.

Court Rules on Bail Application
Before the commencement of the main trial, the presiding judge delivered a ruling on the bail application filed by Chief Akpofure, SAN, counsel to the first defendant, Chief Mike Nwaukoni.

In a carefully worded ruling, the court granted bail under strict and exceptional conditions reflecting the seriousness of the charges.

Under the court’s order, Nwaukoni must:
• Post a ₦25 million bail bond.
• Produce a surety who owns landed property within the court’s jurisdiction valued at ₦25 million, complete with verifiable title documents.
• Surrender his international passport to ensure he does not leave the country.

The court further directed that all defendants must remain within the jurisdiction unless expressly permitted otherwise, the police from the headquarters in Abuja will have to verify the surety and his landed property documents, and are prohibited from contacting prosecution witnesses, either directly or indirectly.

The judge cautioned that any breach of these terms would result in the immediate revocation of bail.

As at press time, Chief Nwaukoni and his legal team were still making efforts to meet the bail conditions set by the court.

Prosecution Opens Case with Police Testimony
Immediately following the bail ruling, the main trial formally commenced, with the prosecution calling its first witness — Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Christian Onuegbu, who was deployed to secure the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku’s Palace on the day of the alleged attack.

In his testimony, DSP Christian recounted how Chief Mike Nwaukoni allegedly led a large crowd to the palace and violently confronted security officers stationed at the gate after being denied entry.

According to his evidence, many members of the group were armed with guns and dangerous weapons and began shooting indiscriminately after the security personnel refused them entry.

He further testified that a vigilante was shot at the entrance, prompting police reinforcements and the use of tear gas to disperse the violent crowd allegedly brought by Nwaukoni and his associates.

Prosecution Team and Trial Outlook
The case is being prosecuted by Superintendent Samuel Mallum of the Force Headquarters, Abuja, representing the Inspector General of Police.

Legal observers describe the proceedings as a litmus test for Nigeria’s security and judicial institutions, given the prominence of the defendants and the deep divisions the case has exposed in the Ogwashi-Uku community.

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The trial is expected to continue for several months, with multiple witnesses and documentary evidence to be presented by the prosecution.

Context: A Test of Law and Order in Ogwashi-Uku
The defendants have long been accused by community leaders of undermining peace and security in the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, even after the Supreme Court’s final judgment reaffirming His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II as the lawful monarch of the kingdom.

According to the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, the ongoing prosecution represents “a long-awaited opportunity for justice” against those who have persistently fomented unrest in the community despite multiple court judgments upholding the authority of the Obi.

He noted that the Palace hopes this trial will “restore sanity, peace, and confidence in the rule of law” across the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, emphasizing that the security challenges facing the town stem from repeated acts of provocation and violence orchestrated by the same individuals now facing trial.

Next Steps
The Federal High Court adjourned the case to a later date for continuation of trial, with the prosecution expected to call additional witnesses.

The case remains under close public and media scrutiny as it unfolds — viewed widely as a defining moment for justice, accountability, and the rule of law in Ogwashi-Uku.