February 6, 2024: The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed the bail applications submitted by individuals associated with the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who were linked to the explosion at the state assembly.
The defendants, identified as Chime Eguma Ezebalike, Prince Lukman Oladele, Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald, and Ochueja Thankgod, faced charges related to terrorism following their alleged involvement in the bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly in October 2023, which resulted in casualties, including police officers.
The incident occurred on October 30, 2023, during a period of reported political tensions, with suspected arsonists causing an explosion at the Rivers State House of Assembly complex. The attack coincided with purported attempts by some lawmakers to impeach Governor Fubara.
The first to third defendants had sought bail, citing health concerns as grounds for their application. However, Justice Bolaji Olajuwon, presiding over the case, rejected the bail applications during the ruling on Monday in Abuja. Justice Olajuwon emphasised that the charges against the defendants were of a capital nature, involving terrorism and alleged murder.
She further asserted that there was insufficient evidence to support the claim that the facilities at the correctional centre were inadequate to address the health needs of the defendants. Justice Olajuwon highlighted that the health center’s experts were capable and well-equipped to manage the defendants’ conditions.
The case has been adjourned until February 8, 2024, for further hearings.
