By Joseph Abasi-Abasi
High Court sitting in Calabar has granted bail application to former aides to immediate past governor of Cross River, on Cocoa Development and Control, Ntufam Dr Oscar Ofuka, who has been languishing in police custody since July 8, 2024.
Ofuka, an embattled former special Adviser to immediate past governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade was arrested by the authority of the state and detained for allegation of murder.
In suit No. HC/84F/24, presided over by Justice Ukpai Ibitham, in a matter of application by Ntufam Dr Oscar Ofuka, for enforcement of his fundamental rights to life, fair hearing and freedom of movement. A matter between Ofuka (applicant), and secretary to Cross River State Government SSG, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, major. Gen. Okoi Obono, and seven others, as (respondents).
The court said Ofuka should be granted bail once he meets with bail application of N50m and reliable surety who owns landed property.
Admitting, the applicant Dr. Ofuka, through his counsel, Ntufam MBA Ukweni (SAN) who was represented in court by Barr. Anthonia Enang, expressed happiness over Ofuka ‘s bail which the court said is pending the determination of the substantive application or the conclusion of investigation by the force headquarters, Abuja.
In a motion ex parte to admit the applicant to bail brought in pursuant to order IV Rules 3&4 of fundamental enforcement (Civil Procedure) rule,2009, as well as section 36(6) (B) of the constitution of the federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
The court has however restrained the respondents the Nigeria police, Secretary to State Government SSG, State Security Adviser and other seven respondents from taking further steps in connection with the matter or staying all actions pending the determination of the substantive application or the conclusion of investigation by the force headquarters Abuja.
Recalled that Ofuka who had been in coma fell down at the customary court and hit his head on the floor of the court before he was rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
