The Federal High Court sitting in Asaba, Delta State, has adjourned the trial of five Ogwashi-Uku leaders, also known as the Ogwashi-Uku Five, to April 3, 2025.

The adjournment was prompted by the prosecution’s inability to serve amended charges on the fifth defendant. The defendants, identified as Francis Okolie (National Legal Adviser, Ogwashi-Uku), Prince Eugene Ojo Izediunor (Agidiase Youth President), John Nwona (Secretary General, Ogwashi-Uku Development Union), Adigwr Eluemunor, and Chief Michael Nwaukoni (Iyase of Ogwashi-Uku), are facing charges of terrorism, attempted murder, and malicious damage in suit FHC/ASB/18C/24.

Prosecuting counsel, Orji Kalu, informed the court that the charges were amended to include the fifth defendant, Chief Nwaukoni. However, the amended charge had not been served, prompting objections from defence counsel.

Counsel to the fifth defendant, Mr Chioma Ukwuanyi, argued that the amended charge must be accompanied by proof of evidence as required by law for criminal cases. The prosecution conceded and assured the necessary documents would be filed before the next hearing.

Meanwhile, counsel to the second defendant, Chief Albert Akpomudje (SAN), pointed out inconsistencies, noting the presence of two amended charges in the case file. Justice Olufumilola Agbaje subsequently adjourned the matter to April 3, 2025, to address the issues and proceed with the trial.
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