Author: Gist Correspondent

A High Court of Rivers State sitting in Port Harcourt has convicted and sentenced four persons to death by hanging over the gruesome murder of former Ahoada East Divisional Police Officer, Bako Angbashim.

Delivering judgment on Thursday, Justice Sika Aprioku found the four defendants guilty of conspiracy, murder, armed robbery, and membership of a secret cult, holding that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

The court heard that the late police officer was killed on September 8, 2023, during a security operation in Odiemude community, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State. His body was later dismembered, an act that triggered widespread tension in the area and led to a major joint security crackdown.

Those sentenced to death are Robinson Sonebari, identified as the native doctor who prepared charms allegedly used during the attack; Bright Okparawo; Precious Amaeze, also known as “Selina”; and Loveday Jack, popularly called “Rugged Excess.” Justice Aprioku ordered that they be hanged by the neck until they are confirmed dead.

In the same judgment, the sixth defendant, Samuel Nwadinma, was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for conspiracy, while the third accused person was discharged and acquitted on all four counts.

Five other suspects—Famous Okechukwu, Samuel Uchendu, Oyekachi Ikonwa, Godbless Nnamdi, and Marshall Daniel—were found guilty of belonging to a secret cult. However, the court ordered their discharge, having already served the statutory term while in custody.

Justice Aprioku noted that the evidence before the court established a coordinated and deliberate plot that resulted in the brutal killing of a police officer who was on lawful duty to protect lives and property.

The prosecution was led by Chigozie Amadi of the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, alongside police legal officer Celestine Dickson. Speaking after the judgment, both lawyers commended the judiciary for what they described as a courageous and just decision, expressing hope that it would serve as a strong deterrent to criminal activities.

Dickson said the ruling sent a clear message that attacks on law enforcement officers would attract the full weight of the law.

Also present in court was Akasco Angbashim, elder brother of the slain officer, who travelled from Nasarawa State to witness the proceedings. He described the verdict as a source of closure for the family, saying justice had finally been served.

The case arose from a wider investigation in which 72 suspects were initially arrested. Sixty-one persons, including traditional rulers and community leaders, were earlier discharged for lack of evidence, leaving thirteen defendants to stand trial.