Ekiti Man Arraigned for Threatening Life of Catholic Bishop, Granted Bail

Victor Akande, a 24-year-old man, has been arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Ado Ekiti for allegedly threatening the life of the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev. Felix Femi Ajakaye. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, took place at the Bishop’s Court around 8:30 pm.

According to the charge read in court, Akande threatened the life of Bishop Ajakaye and conducted himself in a manner that could potentially disturb public peace. The charges against him are in violation of sections 46 and 181(1)(d) of the Laws of Ekiti State, 2021.

Akande pleaded not guilty to the charges. Police prosecutor, Bamikole Olasunkanmi, requested a court date to present witnesses, with plans to call three individuals for the prosecution.

The defense counsel, Mr. Opeyemi Esan, informed the court that the bishop, represented by a priest, had forgiven Akande and recommended rehabilitation for him. Esan urged the court to grant his client bail on liberal terms.

Magistrate Adefunke Anoma, ruling on the case, found that there was insufficient reason to strike out the charge, but granted Akande bail in the sum of N10,000 with one surety of like sum. The surety was required to swear to an affidavit of means and be a resident within the court’s jurisdiction.

The case was adjourned to January 28, 2025, for either a settlement report or a hearing.