In a recent development, a Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has acquitted His Royal Majesty Eze Kelvin Anugwo, the traditional ruler of Ekpeye Logbo in Rivers State, along with 42 others who were on trial for the murder of the late Ahoada Divisional Police Officer, Bako Ambashim.
After the tragic murder of SP Ambashim in September 2023, Eze Anugwo, along with former Ahoada East Local Government Council Chairman Cassidy Ikegbidi and 41 others were charged with offenses including cultism, armed robbery, murder, and conspiracy.
During the recent court session, the Director of Public Prosecution, C.F. Amadi, informed the court that there was insufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against the accused persons, and therefore, they had no case to answer.
Subsequently, the trial judge, Justice Sika Aprioku, based on the advice from the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution, decided to discharge and acquit all the accused individuals.
Ekashie Saturday-Emehi, the counsel for 37 of the defendants, expressed satisfaction with the ruling, stating that it signifies the innocence of the accused individuals, allowing them to resume their regular activities.
Eze Anugwo also commented on the ruling, referring to it as a form of justice for the local community.