The Kaduna state government has filed criminal charges
against Abiodun Ogunyemi, bishop of Zaria diocese, Anglican communion, over
“defamatory remarks” made against Nasir el-Rufai, the governor.
Ogunyemi was arraigned before a chief magistrate’s court in
Kaduna on charges bordering on criminal defamation, injurious falsehood and
criminal intimidation.
The bishop had in a statement in November 2019, criticised
the governor over the planned demolition of St George Cathedral in Zaria.
Ogunyemi had said the governor was being groomed to take
over from President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023 but he would never be president.
The government has since rescinded on its plans to demolish
the 110-year-old cathedral because of its historical value.
After several interrogations from the police, Ogunyemi was
arraigned with the approval of the ministry of justice.
He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail.
A member of the Kaduna Synod and a canon of the cathedral
church of St Michael Kaduna stood in as surety.
However, the director of public prosecutions who led the
state legal team told the court that there were ongoing consultations which
could lead to a peaceful resolution of the case.
John Omughele, counsel to Ogunyemi conceded to the
submission of the prosecution.
The magistrate has adjourned the case to October 28, 2020,
for continuation.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com