Kingsley Ogbonnaya, the suspect standing trial over the 2020 killing of University of Benin (UNIBEN) undergraduate Chinenye Promise Nwoye, has been transferred from the Awka Correctional Centre to the Ekwulobia Correctional Centre in Anambra State. The transfer was confirmed by the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Anambra State, Francis Ekezie, who said Ogbonnaya was moved on administrative proceedings.
Reason for the Transfer
Correctional authorities reportedly moved the murder suspect after discovering that he was initiating fellow inmates into his cult group and engaging in other unruly behaviour at the Awka facility. The move has raised concerns about the impact on the ongoing murder trial, as Ogbonnaya will now need to be transported from Ekwulobia to Awka whenever the court requires his presence.
According to the Anambra State Broadcasting Service (ABS), the transfer has affected the progress of the case. A reliable source told ABS, “The last time I went to Ekwulobia …, I saw him there. He is still there. And this movement has stalled the trial in court.” The source also hinted that Ogbonnaya could be transferred to another state if he continues with the alleged behaviour at the Ekwulobia facility.
Impact on the Trial
The transfer has stalled legal proceedings, with the courts currently on vacation, according to the report. However, Ekezie assured that the suspect would be produced in court whenever he is required for the continuation of his trial. The additional logistics involved in bringing Ogbonnaya back to Awka when proceedings resume have raised concerns among those following the case.
Ogbonnaya remains a defendant in the case, and the allegations against him have not been determined by the court. The murder charge relates to the killing of Chinenye Promise Nwoye, a UNIBEN undergraduate, in 2020.
Next Steps
As the judicial vacation continues, authorities are expected to make necessary arrangements for Ogbonnaya's production in court once hearings resume. The Nigerian Correctional Service has stated its commitment to ensuring the suspect appears for trial, despite the logistical challenges posed by the transfer.
