Court Blocks Nwaukoni’s Request to Travel Abroad in Terrorism Case

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

The Federal High Court in Asaba has denied Chief Mike Nwaukoni’s request to temporarily release his international passport so he could travel abroad for a medical check‑up.

Nwaukoni is the fifth defendant in a terrorism case, alongside lawyer Mr. Francis Okolie, Prince Eugene Ojo Izediunor, John Nwona, and Adigwe Eluemunor. The defendants are on trial under Suit Number FHC/ASB/18C/2024 for allegedly attacking the palace of Ogwashi‑Uku Kingdom during the community’s new yam festival two years ago.

During the resumed hearing on Thursday, counsel for the Inspector General of Police, CSP Samuel Mallum, filed an opposition. He argued that the application was speculative, unsupported, and posed a danger to the administration of justice.

Mr. Mallum warned that releasing the passport for a proposed 12‑week foreign trip would effectively suspend criminal proceedings and expose the court to the risk of the defendant absconding.

The prosecution further contended that the 12‑week period is sufficient for the defendant to seek asylum or citizenship, especially since most evidence has already been presented to the court.

The court noted that although Chief Nwaukoni requested permission to travel from June to August 2026, he failed to provide any genuine medical appointment, referral, emergency treatment schedule, or evidence that treatment could not be obtained in Nigeria.

Prosecuting counsel also claimed the application was a disguised attempt to delay proceedings and abuse the court process, pointing out that the only wedding mentioned in the application was scheduled for August 29, 2026, during the court’s vacation period.

He stated that requesting a suspension of criminal proceedings for nearly three months was highly suspicious.

The court was reminded that the defendant’s passport had originally been deposited as part of his bail conditions to ensure his attendance at trial and prevent escape.

Opposing the application in its entirety, the prosecution relied heavily on the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, emphasizing the legal obligation for speedy trials and the continuous presence of defendants during proceedings.

Meanwhile, Inspector Lucky Egoh, the Investigating Police Officer attached to the Delta State Police Command, testified about the findings of the investigation into the attack on the Ogwashi‑Uku Palace, which forms part of the charges before the court.

According to the IPO, investigations confirmed that the defendants allegedly summoned and mobilised a mob that stormed the Obi’s Palace despite repeated warnings not to do so.

He reported that several people were seriously wounded, vehicles vandalised, and panic and fear spread across the Ogwashi‑Uku community, leading to a breakdown of public peace.

The defence team, comprising over 15 lawyers, declined to cross‑examine the IPO after his testimony because one of them was absent from court.

After hearing the counsel’s arguments, the court declined the defendant’s request to release the passport.

The matter was subsequently adjourned to June 4, 2026, for continuation of the trial.