A Magistrate Court sitting in Owerri, Imo State capital, has declined jurisdiction over the suit brought before it by the Imo State Police Command against a radio broadcast journalist, Chinonso Uba, popularly called Nonsokwa.
The journalist is accused of conspiracy, treason and arson, among others, in a five count charge filed against him by the Police.
The Magistrate, Adikaibe did not allow the defendant to enter his plea on the ground that the court lacks jurisdiction to entertain the matter.
Following the development leading counsel for the defendant, C.K. Mgbekonye, asked the court to admit the journalist to bail.
Opposing the bail application, the prosecuting attorney, N.S. Onwochie, cited Section 93 (1) of the Imo State Administration of Criminal Justice Law which he said gave only the High Court power to grant bail upon application.
He urged the court to refuse bail on the ground that the court lacks jurisdiction to grant bail or even hear the charges.
The court thereafter declined jurisdiction to grant bail and remanded the journalist in the Owerri Correctional Centre
The court equally reminded the defense counsel of their right to apply for the defendant’s bail at the high court.
The case was adjourned to November 12, 2024 for the Director of Public Prosecution’s report and transmission of the case file.
Lack of jurisdiction stalls arraignment of detained journalist, Nonsokwa
