Asaba Court Arraigns RCCG Pastor for Alleged Assault with Wheel Spanner

The Magistrate Court 1 in Asaba, Delta State, on Monday arraigned Pastor Sunday Ogbogho of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for allegedly assaulting one Kenneth Orusi with a wheel spanner.

According to the charge sheet, the incident occurred on July 27, 2025, at No. 5 Elder Ediale Street, off Ibusa Road, Asaba. The prosecution alleged that Ogbogho struck Orusi on the head, causing bodily harm, in violation of Section 355 of the Criminal Code.

Ogbogho pleaded not guilty to the charge. His counsel, identified as Chris, described him as “a respected landlord in Asaba” and presented a Grade Level 17 officer as surety. The surety, who is also an engineer and pastor serving as Director of Operations at the Delta State Direct Labour Agency, assured the court of his commitment to ensure the defendant’s attendance throughout the trial.

However, the magistrate expressed caution, citing past difficulties in tracking sureties in field-based roles when defendants absconded.

“When you take someone on bail, you are telling the court you will ensure they attend trial until the case is concluded,” the magistrate said.

“We have had situations where people vanish, and sureties claim they are working in the field. That will not be tolerated here.”

The court granted Ogbogho bail in the sum of ₦500,000 with one surety in like sum. The surety must be a civil servant not below Grade Level 12, reside within the court’s jurisdiction, and present an appointment letter, promotion letter, office ID, payslip, and a national identity card or voter’s card. Additional requirements include sworn affidavits, residence verification, and passport photographs of both the surety and the defendant.

Issuing a stern warning against bribery, the magistrate said:

“In this court, justice is not for sale. Do not give money to anybody — whether court staff, someone claiming to know the magistrate, or even a lawyer — to influence justice. We do not accept money here. Do not tempt the court, and the court will not tempt you.”

The case was adjourned to August 25, 2025, for hearing.