Trial Of Kaduna Bishop Continues On Oct. 28

By Chuks Ekpeneru

Abiodun Ogunyemi, the Bishop of Zaria Diocese, Anglican communion, who was arraigned before a chief magistrate’s court in Kaduna over “defamatory remarks” made against Governor Nasir el-Rufai is to have his next date in court on October 28 in the continuation of the trial.

The charge against the bishop was brought before the court by the Kaduna state government.

The charge against him borders on criminal defamation, injurious falsehood and criminal intimidation.

Ogunyemu, had in a statement in November 2019, criticised the governor over the planned demolition of St George Cathedral in Zaria.

He further alleged that El Rufai 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The government has since rescinded on its plans to demolish the 110-year-old cathedral because of its historic value.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 thus adjourned the case to October 28, 2020, for continuation.

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