A Magistrate Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has granted bail to Odey Oyama, an environmental activist accused of promoting communal conflict in Effi community. Oyama, alongside six others, had been in police custody since their arrest on January 14, 2025.
The court, presided over by Magistrate Okoho Bassey, ruled on Thursday, emphasizing the need to protect citizens’ rights and adhere to legal procedures. Oyama, the Director of the Rainforest Resources and Development Centre, was granted bail under stringent conditions, including a N5 million bond and two sureties.
Magistrate Bassey cited Section 290 of the Cross River State Administration of Criminal Justice Law, noting the prosecution had failed to present a case file or motion to justify further detention. “When a case is brought before a magistrate court for remand, it must comply with the law,” she stated.
Defense counsel Ntufam Mgbe argued that the court lacked jurisdiction over cases involving capital punishment, urging it to strike out the case or grant bail. However, prosecuting counsel O. U. Ubi opposed the bail, insisting the court had jurisdiction under Sections 101 and 102 of the same law.
Four other accused persons were also granted bail under similar conditions. The case has been adjourned to February 7, 2025, for a hearing.
Oyama and the co-defendants face allegations of sponsoring communal conflict in Okuni and neighboring areas. While the charges remain contentious, the case has spotlighted the balance between upholding the law and ensuring justice for accused persons.