By Joeseph Egbeocha
Ikechukwu JohnPaul Ezenagu, the Nnewi-based native doctor widely
known as “Mmuo Mmili Afuluanya”, has secured bail from an Anambra State High
Court, but will have to stay away from the media while his trial continues.
The
ruling was delivered on Friday by Justice Jude Obiora at the High Court in
Awka, bringing a significant development in the ongoing prosecution of the
traditional practitioner.
Under the
terms of the court order, Ezenagu was granted bail in the sum of N50 million
and must provide one surety in the same amount.
The court
also imposed additional conditions aimed at ensuring his appearance throughout
the trial. Among them is the requirement that he deposit the title documents of
his home with the court. The property could be forfeited if he fails to honour
the bail conditions or absconds.
In
another key part of the ruling, Justice Obiora directed the defendant not to
grant interviews or speak to the press while legal proceedings remain ongoing.
The
decision came after arguments from both sides in a case that has attracted
considerable public attention across Anambra State.
Speaking
after the court session, one of Ezenagu’s lawyers, Barrister Kingsley Awuka,
welcomed the ruling and described the bail terms as fair and achievable.
According
to him, the defence team believes the court acted appropriately and expressed
confidence that the judicial process would ultimately deliver justice.
Ezenagu is
facing prosecution over allegations linked to the Anambra Homeland Security
Law. The case is being led by the Anambra State Attorney General and
Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN.
The
native doctor was arrested on March 26 by operatives of Agunechemba, the
Anambra State Government’s security outfit. Authorities accused him of actions
said to be in breach of provisions contained in the state’s security
legislation.
While the
court’s decision means Ezenagu can regain his freedom pending trial, the legal
battle is far from over.
With
strict bail conditions now in place and the prosecution moving ahead, attention
will turn to the next phase of proceedings as both sides prepare to argue their
case before the court.
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