Rivers: Court sentences four to death over killing of Ahoada DPO
Four Sentenced to Death in High-Profile Murder Case in Rivers State
PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — A High Court in Rivers State has sentenced four individuals to death by hanging for their roles in the murder of Superintendent Bako Angbashim, the former Divisional Police Officer of Ahoada East. The sentencing occurred on Thursday, concluding a trial involving 13 defendants.
Superintendent Angbashim was killed in September 2023 in the Odumude community of Ahoada East Local Government Area. His body was reportedly decapitated by members of a cult group, with disturbing footage of the incident circulated on social media.
Justice Sika Aprioku presided over the case and found the first defendant, Robinson Sonabari, identified as a native doctor; Bright Okparawo, the second defendant; Precious Amaeze, also known as Selina; and Loveday Jack, commonly called Ragged Excess, guilty of conspiracy, murder, membership in a secret cult, and robbery.
The court ruled that the prosecution presented sufficient evidence, including testimony that Sonabari prepared a charm used in the assault.
Additionally, Samuel Nwadinma, the sixth defendant, received a three-year prison sentence for conspiracy. The third defendant was acquitted of all charges due to a lack of supporting evidence.
Justice Aprioku also ordered the release of five other defendants—Famous Okechukwu, Samuel Uchendu, Oyekachi Ikonwa, Godbless Nnamdi, and Marshall Daniel—who were previously convicted of secret cult membership. The judge noted that they had already served the legal terms of their detention, deeming their continued imprisonment unwarranted.
