Arraignment, Bail Of Ogwashi-Uku Defendants, Patrick Osamor, Augustine Ashi Marks New Phase In Criminal Probe
The security situation in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom took another major step today, 11 December 2025, as Patrick Izu Osammor and Augustine Nwafor Ashi were formally arraigned before the Federal High Court, Abuja in Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/594/2025.
The duo, previously held at Keffi Prison, face allegations connected to a coordinated plot to destabilise the kingdom.
Dramatic Bail Hearing
The court granted the defendants bail after a forceful plea by their lawyer, Barrister Steve Emelieze, who made the unusual offer to deposit his Call-to-Bar certificate to assure the court that the defendants would not abscond. Other sureties—including the ODA Abuja President, Diokpa Patrick Obi—also undertook to guarantee their attendance throughout the trial.
Despite the court’s approval, the defendants failed to perfect the bail terms and were consequently remanded to Kuje Correctional Centre. Our reporter witnessed correctional officers escorting them back into custody. Their trial is scheduled to begin on 11 March 2025.
The judge warned the defendants to maintain strict good behaviour and avoid any acts that may breach the peace or interfere with ongoing investigations, noting that any misconduct could lead to an immediate revocation of bail.
Background to the Case
Osammor and Ashi were arrested in October 2025 following months of intelligence-gathering directed by the Inspector General of Police.
Investigators allege that they played central roles in a campaign of misinformation, incitement, and mobilisation of factions aimed at destabilising Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
Both men, along with others still at large, are longstanding supporters of the Umu Obi Dieyi faction, which lost its challenge to the Ogwashi-Uku throne at the High Court, Court of Appeal, and finally the Supreme Court.
In court today were Barr. Victor Nobei and Barr. Francis Okolie, lawyers known to represent the faction. Barr. Okolie is himself facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Asaba for allegedly participating in the violent attack on the Obi in October 2023.
Investigation Expands
Police sources confirm that the investigation has now broadened to include fresh threats against His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, and possible links between the defendants and individuals already on trial for the 2023 palace attack. Investigators believe the current activities may be a continuation of that earlier plot.
Attempts by some suspects to block their arrest through Fundamental Rights applications have been dismissed by senior police lawyers as legally baseless, noting that courts cannot restrain the police from investigating crime.
Police Vow to Pursue All Leads
A senior officer told our reporter: “The police will follow every lead. Anyone found liable in the attempt to plunge Ogwashi-Uku into crisis will be brought to justice. No one is above the law.”
As the kingdom awaits the commencement of trial in March 2025, many residents hope that this case will finally expose the full network behind the unrest and help restore lasting peace.
