By Mick Oseji
ASABA — The Delta State High Court has refused an application for bail filed on behalf of Mr Ifeanyi Ogbonna, popularly known as Odogwu Asaba, who is facing allegations connected with the death of late Favour Agbro.
The court’s ruling was delivered on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, after hearing arguments from counsel representing the defendant and the prosecution.
Following the ruling, Ogbonna was ordered to remain in custody at the Ogwashi-Uku Maximum Correctional Centre, pending further steps in the criminal proceedings.
The court also directed the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to file the formal Information within 14 days.
According to a statement issued by Ogbonna’s lawyers, Triple O and C Chambers, the court declined the bail application at this stage, citing concerns surrounding the defendant’s safety and possible public reaction, particularly as the prosecution had yet to file the Information.
The court, however, indicated that Ogbonna would be free to return to court and seek bail again after the Information had been filed.
Ogbonna was represented during the proceedings by Ugochukwu Okoli, N.N. Onuzurike and C.S. Chukwudolue, while Dr R.O. Ishiguzo, a law officer attached to the Nigeria Police Force, State Criminal Investigation Department, Asaba,
appeared for the respondent, identified as the State Commissioner of Police/complainant.
The development was also confirmed by Awele Ideal, who represents the family of the late Favour Agbro on a pro bono basis.
In an update following the proceedings, Ideal said the bail application had been argued before the court and that the judge subsequently declined to grant bail to Ogbonna.
She reiterated her commitment to representing Favour’s family and providing legal services to them without charge.
Reacting to the ruling, Comrade Deo, a human rights advocate involved in the campaign seeking justice for Favour, described the development as “a reminder that justice is a process.”
He commended Ideal for representing the deceased’s family and for opposing the bail application.
Deo also alleged that activists had collaborated with the police during efforts that culminated in Ogbonna’s arrest in Asaba, following the monitoring of his movements.
He nevertheless emphasised that the court’s refusal to grant bail should not be interpreted as a determination of guilt.
“The refusal of bail is not a conviction, and the allegations against the accused remain allegations until determined by the court,” he said.
The case is expected to proceed with the filing of the Information by the DPP within the period stipulated by the court.
Once the Information is filed, Ogbonna may renew his application for bail, subject to the consideration of the court.
For now, he will remain at the Ogwashi-Uku Maximum Correctional Centre as the legal process continues.
Ogbonna remains presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
