Suspected Killers Of Justice Okogwu Plead Not Guilty

Proceedings have opened at the Delta State High Court sitting in Asaba, in the prosecution of the two suspects accused of the gruesome murder of retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu.

They are alleged to have committed the act on November 27, 2025, at the residence of the late jurist in Asaba, the state capital.

The defendants, Godwin Mngumi, a 25-year-old security guard and Nnaji Abalum, were arraigned before the court on a four-count charge bordering on armed robbery, conspiracy and murder.

At the commencement of trial, the prosecution team, led by the state attorney-general and commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, alongside the solicitor-general and permanent secretary, Ministry of Justice, Omamuzo Erebe, and other state counsel, informed the court that investigations into the matter had been concluded, adding that the police had done their part.

The prosecution assured the court of its readiness to diligently pursue the case, emphasising that the Delta State government was committed to ensuring that justice was served.

The team further stressed that the state placed high priority on the protection of life and property and would not tolerate acts of violent crime.

The defendants were represented by their counsel, Ernest Edomwonyi, Director of Public Defender, and E. I. Opiah.

Upon the reading of the charges, both defendants pleaded not guilty to all counts preferred against them.

‎Following their plea, the presiding judge adjourned the matter to April 14, 2026, for the prosecution to open its case and present witnesses.

‎Justice Okogwu, a respected retired judge of the Delta State Judiciary, was reportedly attacked and killed in her home in an incident that drew widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over insecurity in Delta State.