An Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka has granted bail to a popular Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu JohnPaul Ezenagu, widely known as Mmuo Mmili Afuluanya, in the sum of N50 million .
Justice Jude Obiora, who presided over the Homeland Security Special Court, granted the bail on Friday, June 19, 2026, with a surety in like sum .
Strict Bail Conditions
The court imposed stringent conditions as part of the bail terms. Ezenagu is required to deposit the title documents of his residence with the court, which would be forfeited to the Anambra State Government should he jump bail or abscond from trial .
Additionally, Justice Obiora barred the native doctor from granting interviews or speaking to the press while the matter remains before the court . This restriction is aimed at ensuring that the trial proceeds without external interference or media commentary that could prejudice the proceedings.
Defence Reaction
Speaking after the court proceedings, one of the defendant's counsel, Barrister Kingsley Awuka, expressed satisfaction with the ruling, describing the court as "gracious" in granting bail . Awuka added that the bail conditions were reasonable and within his client's capacity to meet, expressing confidence that justice would take its course as the trial progresses .
Charges and Allegations
The prosecution is being led by the Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN .
Ezenagu is facing charges related to the alleged violation of provisions of the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 . The law was enacted to strengthen security and curb criminal activities across the state.
Background of Arrest
The native doctor was first arrested on March 26 by operatives of the Anambra State Government's security outfit, Agunechemba . Following his arrest, security operatives reportedly conducted a search of his residence in Nnewi as part of ongoing investigations .
State authorities alleged that Ezenagu encouraged young men and women to patronise him with promises of quick wealth through ritual practices, including bathing in a stream behind his residence . Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, noted that the native doctor had previously been cautioned over his activities but allegedly failed to cease .
Medical Concerns
Prior to the bail ruling, the defendant had been remanded at the Amawbia Correctional Centre. Ezenagu was initially brought to court from the hospital on June 3, where his counsel applied for bail on health grounds and requested permission to remain in the hospital until the next adjourned date .
However, the prosecution opposed the application, leading Justice Obiora to rule that a hospital was not a recognised facility for the detention of an accused person, ordering his remand at the correctional centre pending the determination of the bail motion .
Case Adjourned
Following the bail ruling, the court adjourned the matter to July 3, 2026, for continuation of trial .
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