By Ade Oyeyemi
A 24-year-old man, Israel Njoku, has been arraigned before an Akure Magistrate’s Court in Ondo State for allegedly assaulting a police officer while the officer was performing his lawful duty.
Njoku was brought before Magistrate Taiwo Lebi on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obstruction of police officers, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and assault.
The police alleged that Njoku and others still at large committed the offences on September 17, 2026, at about 10am along the Ilesha-Owo Expressway, opposite Pamper, Akure.
The prosecution, led by Augustine Omhenimhen, told the court that the defendant and his alleged accomplices obstructed police officers who were carrying out their lawful duties.
Omhenimhen further alleged that the defendant and others conducted themselves in a manner capable of causing a breach of peace by assaulting the officers.
In the fourth count, Njoku was specifically accused of assaulting the Divisional Crime Officer II, ASP Olorunfemi Paul.
The prosecutor alleged that the defendant beat the officer, dragged him on the floor and inflicted injuries on his face while he was carrying out his official duties.
The offences were said to contravene Sections 516, 75, 249(b) and 356(2) of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Volume I, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.
The prosecutor urged the court to adjourn the matter to enable the prosecution assemble its witnesses for trial.
However, defence counsel, Daniel Onu, urged the court to grant Njoku bail on the most liberal terms.
Opposing the application, the prosecutor alleged that the defendant mobilised people who assaulted the police officer, resulting in injuries, including an injury to his eye.
Omhenimhen urged the court to remand the defendant, arguing that such an order would serve as a deterrent to others.
After hearing the arguments, Magistrate Lebi adjourned ruling on the bail application until September 24, 2026.
The court is expected to determine the defendant’s bail application on the adjourned date.
