Court Denies Chief Justice’s Passport Request in Ongoing Terrorism Case
The Federal High Court in Asaba has rejected an application by Chief Justice Mike Nwakoni, one of the defendants in a high-profile terrorism case, seeking temporary release of his international passport for medical travel abroad.
Nwakoni is among several defendants, including lawyer Francis Okolie, Prince Eugene Ojo Izediunor, John Nwona, and Adigwe Eluemunor. They face trial under case number FHC/ASB/18C/2024 for allegedly attacking the palace of the Ogwasi-Uku Kingdom during the community’s new yam festival two years ago.
During the resumed hearing on Thursday, prosecution lawyer CSP Samuel Mallam contended that the application lacked substantial evidence and posed a potential risk to the judicial process. He argued that granting the passport for a proposed 12-week trip could effectively suspend the ongoing criminal proceedings, increasing the risk of the defendant fleeing.
The prosecution further asserted that the duration of the trip raised suspicions, as it could provide ample opportunity for the defendant to apply for asylum or citizenship abroad. The court was informed that Nwakoni had requested permission to travel between June and August 2026 but failed to substantiate the application with legitimate medical appointments or evidence that necessary treatments could not be obtained in Nigeria.
Mallam also criticized the timing of the trip, highlighting that the only event mentioned in the application was a wedding scheduled for August 29, 2026, coinciding with a court holiday. This, he argued, cast doubt on the validity of the application and suggested it was an attempt to further delay proceedings.
The court was reminded that Nwakoni’s passport had been deposited as part of his bail conditions to ensure his appearance at trial and minimize the risk of him absconding. The prosecution leaned on the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 (ACJA), underscoring the legal obligation for expedient criminal trials and the necessity of defendants being present throughout.
On the investigative front, Inspector Lucky Egoh of the Delta State Police Command testified about findings related to the Ogwasi-Uku Palace attack. He confirmed that the defendants had allegedly organized a mob that stormed the palace despite ongoing warnings, resulting in serious injuries and widespread panic within the community.
The defense team, comprising over 15 lawyers, decided not to proceed with further cross-examination of the investigating officer due to the absence of one of their members. Following the arguments presented, the court ultimately denied Nwakoni’s request for his passport. The case has been adjourned until June 4, 2026, for further proceedings.
