Mike Nwaukoni, a man who had evaded justice for several months, was arrested recently, facing serious charges that include terrorism, attempted murder, and inciting native war.
The Inspector General of Police, acting within the full scope of the law, has now filed an amended seven-count charge against Nwaukoni and others (Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024), which also includes charges related to damaging police property.
These charges stem from the shocking October 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, an incident that rattled the kingdom and its people.
Nwaukoni’s arrest, though anticipated by those following the case, raises questions about his months of evasion while his co-defendants—Barrister Francis Okolie, Eugene Izediunor, John Nwaona, and Eluemunor Sunday Adigwe—had already been charged.
His sudden reappearance brings forth speculation: Was he receiving protection, or did he retreat to regroup?
Following his capture by the X Squad Police at the Delta State Headquarters, Nwaukoni reportedly made a statement, prompting the revision of the charges against all involved.
Despite this, he was granted bail pending his arraignment at the Federal High Court in Asaba.
The key question now is whether he will appear in court, or attempt to flee once again, as he had previously claimed to be abroad for medical treatment, a common defense among high-profile suspects to delay proceedings.
Authorities are now demanding assurances from his legal team that he will stand trial. If he fails to show up for his arraignment, an immediate re-arrest warrant could be issued, further complicating his legal situation.
Meanwhile, peace has gradually returned to Ogwashi-Uku after the palace invasion, though tensions over land and chieftaincy disputes remain.
The Delta State Government’s Commission of Inquiry into Land and Chieftaincy Disputes continues to gather evidence, with public hearings held in November 2024 attracting over thirty petitioners.
These hearings focus on the land and leadership disputes, particularly over the Otulu Ogwashi-Uku and Olu-Odu Ogwashi-Uku matters.
The outcome of this inquiry will have lasting effects on the region’s land ownership and traditional governance. However, as the commission proceeds, it is clear that justice must be both served and visible.
The legal proceedings against Nwaukoni will continue to unfold, with the public and legal experts closely monitoring the situation. Will justice be swift, or will the case follow a pattern of prolonged legal delays? Time will tell.
Stay tuned for further updates as the case progresses.
