A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has transferred the case of attempted murder and cultism involving Deele Akpobari to a new judge, Justice Augusta Chukwu.
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Akpobari, also known as “Bob Satan,” and Saviour Robert, alias “Timberland,” are facing three charges alongside Leesor Kpugisere and Leeka Dele-Manapo.

The case was reassigned from Justice Victor Ugorji’s court following an application by Chief State Counsel Precious Ordu of the Ministry of Justice. Ordu requested the transfer to consolidate similar cases and facilitate a speedy hearing and resolution. Objections raised by the defence counsel were overruled, allowing the transfer to proceed.

Akpobari and his co-defendants are accused of attempting to murder Chief Gani Topba, leader of the Conscience of Ogoni People, on March 12, 2023. Topba was ambushed and shot multiple times while returning to his community, Zaakpa, in Khana Local Council.

Earlier, a Magistrate’s Court had declined jurisdiction to hear the case or grant bail to Akpobari. Subsequently, Akpobari approached Justice Ibetela Obu of the state high court for bail.

However, the request was denied after the prosecution informed the court that charges against the defendant had already been filed in another court.
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