A Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Sunday Oghogho, was on Tuesday arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court in Asaba for allegedly assaulting journalist Kenneth Orusi with a wheel spanner, inflicting head injuries.

The incident was said to have occurred on July 27, 2025, at No. 5 Elder Ediale Street, off Ibusa Road, Asaba.

According to the charge, marked Case File No. 367 and filed before Magistrate Court 4, Asaba, the defendant is being prosecuted under Section 355 of the Criminal Code, which deals with assault occasioning harm.

Police prosecutor Alex Ibe told the court that Oghogho struck Orusi on the head with a wheel spanner. The defendant pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to him.

Defence counsel, identified simply as Chris, applied for bail, which was granted in the sum of ₦500,000 with one surety in like sum.

The court ruled that the surety must be a civil servant of at least Grade Level 12, present valid official documentation, submit two passport photographs each of the surety and defendant, and undergo verification by court and police authorities

The Magistrate expressed caution in accepting sureties, noting that in some cases sureties had absconded for over a year.

“Taking someone on bail is a solemn guarantee to ensure they attend trial. We cannot afford to take that risk lightly,” the Magistrate said.

The court also warned against bribery and unethical conduct during proceedings.

“Justice is not for sale in this court. Do not give money to anyone — not staff, not lawyers, not people claiming to know the magistrate. We do not accept bribes, and you must not tempt the court,” the Magistrate cautioned.

The case was adjourned to August 25, 2025, for hearing.