By Okhide Em’ya David
A Benin High Court has adjourned a case of murder against the Iyatsere of Warri, Johnson Atseleghe, to November 26th 2020, but activists representing the Benin Solidarity Movement have accused the court of compromise in the case.
There was a mass protest around the court premises by the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) and its IgheleEdo Civil Defense/Security Services with citizens of Ologbo community, demanding that the case be transferred to another court, as they have lost confidence on the presiding judge, Justice Efe Ikponmwonba.
Spokespersons for Benin Solidarity Movement, BSM, IgheleEdo Civil Defense/Security Services and other Protesters, including Comrade Curtis Ugo, accused the judge of being compromised.
One of the placards read: “We need justice for Sunny Etchie, the Okhaigele of Kolokolo community.” Killers should not be allowed to move freely in our society.”
Also, the protesters moved to the state Police Command to lay their complaint. They asked the Police to look into the alleged invitation of the Enogie and some members of the community for questioning when they are fully aware that they are fighting for the people.
Edo State Judiciary was yet to issue a Statement on issues raised by the Protesters as at the time of this report.
The defendant in the case, Johnson Atseleghe is the Iyatsere of Warri and leader of Itsekiri in oil-rich Ologbo Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, being tried for the murder of Okuomuose Omorodion and Genesis Orji in Ologbo Community in charge sheet no B/co/717m/20.
The offence contravened Sections 324, punishable under the Criminal Code Act, Cap C38, Laws of Federation of Nigeria 2004, and Section 2 (2) and punishable under section 3 of 00 prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2013 of Edo State.
At the sitting on Thursday, the accused, Johnson Atseleghe was not present in court, and the prosecutor told the court that DPP advice was being awaited.
It would be recall that lawyer to Atseleghe in the last sitting told the court that Chief Atseleghe would be available in the court anytime he is needed.
The Presiding Judge, Justice Efe Ikponmwonba, however adjourned the case to November 26, 2020 for awaiting the DPP advice.
