A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has reassigned the attempted murder and cultism case involving Deele Akpobari to a new judge, Justice Augusta Chukwu.
Akpobari, popularly known as “Bob Satan,” is facing three charges alongside Saviour Robert, alias “Timberland,” Leesor Kpugisere, and Leeka Dele-Manapo. The case was transferred from Justice Victor Ugorji’s court following an application by Chief State Counsel Precious Ordu of the Ministry of Justice, who requested the reassignment to consolidate similar cases and ensure a speedy trial. Despite objections from the defense, the transfer was approved.
The defendants are accused of attempting to assassinate Chief Gani Topba, leader of the Conscience of Ogoni People, on March 12, 2023. Topba was reportedly ambushed and shot multiple times while returning to his community, Zaakpa, in Khana Local Council.
Earlier, a Magistrate’s Court had declined jurisdiction over the case and refused bail to Akpobari. He later sought bail from Justice Ibetela Obu of the state high court, but the request was denied after prosecutors revealed that charges had already been filed in another court.