“MY DAUGHTER, MY DAUGHTER” — GRIEF, SHOCK AS NURSING STUDENT FOUND DEAD IN ALOR SPARKS OUTCRY AND POLICE PROBE

 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.