Tension in Abuja Court as Police Attempt to Rearrest Ohiri

Tension flared at the Wuse Zone 2 Magistrate Court in Abuja on Thursday when police allegedly attempted to rearrest Nigerian businesswoman Ohiri shortly after she was granted bail. Ohiri had been detained following allegations of defamation against a minister.

Magistrate Ibraheem granted her bail in the sum of 1 million naira with two sureties. The defense team, led by Abubakar Marshal, reportedly fulfilled the bail conditions.

However, heavily armed police from the FCT Command surrounded the court premises in Hilux vehicles, attempting to rearrest her immediately after the bail was perfected. This action triggered outrage among activists and supporters gathered at the court, who insisted that Ohiri be allowed to regain her freedom as per the court's pronouncement.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who stood as a surety, disclosed that he contacted Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu, urging caution among the officers involved. The situation led to a standoff, with activists refusing to leave the premises until Ohiri was allowed to leave in accordance with the bail order.