AWKA — The Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka has denied bail to Harrison Anazodo, the General Overseer of Day Spring Assembly, who is standing trial over allegations made against him by the state.
Anazodo had applied for bail on health grounds, but the presiding judge, Justice Jude Obiora, rejected the application on Tuesday.
The development came as seven persons described as members of Anazodo’s church were listed to testify in the case.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter until October 16, 2026, for further proceedings.
Court Cites Witness Protection
Speaking after the proceedings, state counsel Victoria Ekwerekwu said the prosecution welcomed the court’s decision.
She said the state had established a prima facie case that would have to be proved beyond reasonable doubt during the trial.
According to Ekwerekwu, the court’s decision to deny bail was influenced by concerns about possible interference with witnesses.
She said the prosecution appreciated the efforts of the Anambra State Government under Governor Charles Soludo to address activities it considers harmful to society.
Ekwerekwu, however, stressed that the allegations against Anazodo remained matters for the court to determine.
Information Commissioner Speaks
Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, also expressed confidence that the case would be resolved through the judicial process.
Mefor said the court had considered the bail application filed by Anazodo’s counsel before reaching its decision.
“We are looking for the quick dispensation of the matter and we assure you that justice would be done and seen to have been done,” he said.
The commissioner added that the final determination of the case remained the responsibility of the court.
Supporters Clash With Journalists
The proceedings were preceded by a confrontation involving individuals believed to be supporters or members of Anazodo’s church.
The incident occurred when the defendant arrived at the court premises.
The supporters reportedly attempted to shield him from journalists and cameramen using umbrellas and their hands as he was taken towards the courtroom.
The vehicle conveying Anazodo reportedly reversed towards the courtroom entrance, pushing some journalists in the process.
Some journalists allegedly had their phones damaged during the confrontation.
The supporters also reportedly occupied most available spaces inside the courtroom, leaving limited room for journalists and other observers.
Attorney-General Condemns Incident
Anambra State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, condemned the incident.
Nweke said he was informed that individuals accompanying the defendant had attacked members of the press and damaged their equipment.
He said he brought the matter to the attention of the court because court premises and courtrooms must be treated as places of dignity and order.
The Attorney-General also defended the role of journalists in reporting court proceedings.
He said the press serves as “the eyes and ears of the public” and should therefore be allowed to carry out its duties without intimidation.
Nweke said he asked the court to take note of the conduct and indicated that he would escalate the matter to law-enforcement authorities.
Counsel Apologises
According to Nweke, counsel representing Anazodo subsequently apologised to him, members of the press and the court over the incident.
The defence counsel also accepted responsibility for replacing the damaged equipment, according to the Attorney-General.
Nweke said the court later delivered a bench ruling accepting the apology and directing that the damaged gadgets be replaced.
The court also appealed to the Attorney-General to allow the matter to rest following the apology.
Nweke said the development reinforced the importance of protecting press freedom and allowing journalists to perform their professional duties.
Trial Continues October 16
With bail denied, Anazodo remains in custody as proceedings continue.
The prosecution is expected to present its witnesses, including the seven church members listed to testify.
The allegations against Anazodo have not been established as facts by the court. The prosecution will be required to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, while the defendant remains entitled to defend himself against the allegations.
The court has adjourned the matter until October 16, 2026, when proceedings are expected to continue.
